Samantha Coletti leads the pack. / Courtesy photo
Coletti outlines what a normal day for her is like and more.
Time’s flying for Samantha Coletti at Army West Point.
The Express chatted with Coletti, a three-season runner for the Black Knights, about her experiences thus far and to find out where she hopes to end up.
Q: How would you describe your college experience in general thus far?
A: “It was challenging from the start and it continues to challenge me daily. I am just now learning how to deal with it better.”
Q: For those who don’t know, what makes West Point unique?
A: “Traditions. There are so many traditions that are so unique and special to anyone who graduates the Academy. The comradery of the Corps is also a very unique thing. Everyone here is so willing to help each other out through the struggles.”
Q: Why West Point? What made this the right fit for you?
A: “I chose West Point because I wanted to be challenged mentally and physically. More importantly I wanted to serve and become a better leader that people want to follow.”
Q: What’s a normal day like for you?
A: “Normally, I wake up at 5 a.m. and go to a morning track practice (lifting), then we have formation at 6:50, followed by classes beginning at 7:30 and ending at 3:15 (lunch formation at 11:50). From there, I go straight to practice and train. After practice I would usually go straight to dinner and back to my room to do my homework. Of course some days include other activities and plans, but this is an outline of a typical day at West Point.”
Q: How do you balance being an athlete and student?
A: “I have to stay focused and get on a daily schedule. Usually I plan out my entire day by the hour to make sure I can get everything done.”
Q: What’s been the best advice you’ve received about being a student-athlete and who did it come from?
A: “My coach always tells us to focus on what you’re doing at the moment. When you’re at track practice, you’re not thinking about school and when you’re at school do your best to focus on what needs to get done.”
Q: What’s been your greatest accomplishment as an athlete so far? When did it come?
A: “My greatest accomplishment so far as an athlete was breaking the star meet (Army vs Navy) record last outdoor season at Navy in the 1000.”
Q: What’s been your greatest accomplishment off the field so far? When did it come?
A: “My greatest accomplishment off the track so far has been affirming in August of last year. I have committed myself to five years active duty after graduation and three more in the reserves.”
Q: What are your goals the rest of the way?
A: “My goals are to ultimately meet the world class athlete standards before graduation so I could be a part of the world class athlete program and run for the Army after graduation. My other main goals are to stay focused, continue running without injury, and to graduate and lead soldiers.”