Pruneski tackles West Point’s rigorous schedule

MADISON – Cadet James Pruneski entered the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in June 2015, one month after graduating from James Clemens High School.

“The first six weeks consisted of indoctrination/basic training called ‘Beast Barracks,’ where we learned drill, marksmanship, military tactics and skills and customs,” Pruneski said.

“The best part about being a Cadet at West Point is either the amount of amazing people you get to meet, who all share the same determination for excellence as you do, or the amount of unique opportunities they offer,” he said.

Enrolling at West Point also involves a rigorous schedule. “Some of the challenges we face include our workload (I average between 21 to 24 credits per semester), the highly regimented schedules and competing with so many unique people,” Pruneski said.

He moved to Madison in summer 2010 when his father was stationed at Redstone Arsenal. “My father Jim Pruneski is a Colonel in the Army, specializing in Space Operations. My mother Sandy works at a personalized gift store. My sister Alex plays lacrosse and studies nursing at the University of Alabama in Huntsville,” James said.

Currently, James plans to major in kinesiology/pre-medical studies. “I am also pursuing a second major in physics. After West Point, I hope to become either a physician in the Army or an attack helicopter pilot,” James said.

“In my free time, I get to help out at various homeless shelters across New York City,” James said. “I also participate in a variety of academic, cultural and religious clubs as much as possible.”

“Some of my hobbies include staying physically fit, tutoring others, watching sports and learning new things,” Pruneski said.