This week’s senior spotlight features none other than ninja star and Spartan athlete, Will Pruden. While Will has participated in a variety of school sports such as shooting team, golf, cross country, track and field, basketball and baseball, his true passion lies at the local American Ninja Warrior course in Red Oak and competing in unique races such as the physically challenging Spartan. You can first spot Will in the hallways by his 6.5 frame, constant funny inside jokes, or serious discussion about movies and actors. Whatever kind of day you are having, Will will be the first person to lighten the mood and put a smile on your face through his sarcastic comments or contagious laugh.

Will is a sure stand-out in the classroom, by maintaining high academic standards, on the field in sports, and in the community. For the past 10 years, Will has been an avid member at Camp Seagull and was even a summer counselor in training. Will also does a lot of community service through his church, First United Methodist. Last summer, his church traveled to Costa Rica to lend a helping hand. At school, Will has been a member of Academy Rescue Foundation, where he helped raise funds to save local dogs, and is a current member of Care Club. Additionally, last year Will and his family hosted a Chinese student, Jack Wu, for a whole school year. As Will stated, “It was a great learning experience for both Jack and our family.”

In the college world, Will plans to apply to Campbell, North Carolina State University, Clemson, and Virginia Tech and major in civil engineering. So, the next time you see Will, be sure to wish him a zoik day (most students have heard this particular joke, but if you haven’t, be sure to ask him about it next time you see him)!

To learn more about Will, read his short interview below:

1. What has been your favorite class at RMA?

Dr. K’s science class.

2. What is your favorite show to watch on Netflix?

24 but it’s not on Netflix.

3. What volunteer experience have you had that has made the largest impact on your life and why?

I went to Costa Rica with a group from my church and helped make a sidewalk. I got to see how privileged I am and it had a huge impact on me.

4. What kind of music do you listen to?

Only Billy Joel and Rupert Holmes

5. If you were stranded on an island with only three things, what would it be?

A volleyball, the entire collection of the 24 show, and a fishing rod.

6. What will you miss the most about RMA? The least?

Getting the lunch room chicken salad. I will miss notebook checks the least.

7. What is your pet peeve?

When the lunch room doesn’t serve chicken salad.

8. What is your favorite thing to do on the weekends?

Interpretive dance.

9. So, we’ve heard you’re a ninja. Please tell us about your ninja experience.

It’s been a great experience. Learning the techniques and working at the obstacles until I can achieve them is a lot of fun. I’ve also had the opportunity to meet a lot of people from American Ninja Warrior (the TV show).

10. What is your favorite sport that you have played at school?

When I played basketball I really enjoyed it.