Tuscola senior offered appointment to United States Military Academy
Hunter Sollie has received an appointment to attend the United States Military Academy. Donated photo
Tuscola High School senior Hunter Sollie has received a prestigious appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point, one of the nation’s most selective and esteemed military institutions.
Each year, approximately 13,000 students apply to West Point, with only about 1,200 earning an appointment. Hunter is among this elite group, recognized for his exceptional leadership, academic excellence, athletic achievements and dedication to service.
His appointment follows nominations from both Sen. Thom Tillis and Rep. Chuck Edwards, part of a highly competitive and rigorous selection process. Candidates are evaluated on academic achievement, physical aptitude, leadership potential, and moral character.
“Being offered an appointment to West Point is not just a recognition of academic and athletic excellence — it’s a testament to Hunter’s leadership, dedication to service, and strong moral character,” said Lt. Col. David Wise (Ret.), West Point Admissions Field Force volunteer for Western North Carolina.
Sollie ranks second in his graduating class of 205 students and holds a weighted GPA of 4.607. He is an AP Scholar with Distinction, a recipient of the AP Capstone Diploma, and has completed numerous Advanced Placement and dual-enrollment college courses. He is also a multi-sport varsity athlete, serving as captain of the swim, soccer and tennis teams. In addition, he is actively involved in the National Honor Society and several student-led service organizations.
Outside of school, he works as a lifeguard, serves as a junior firefighter with the Crabtree Iron Duff Volunteer Fire Department and volunteers with several local organizations. His unwavering commitment to service and leadership embodies the very qualities that West Point seeks in its cadets.
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West Point offers an educational and leadership development experience unlike any traditional college. Founded in 1802, the Academy prepares future leaders of the U.S. Army through a highly structured and demanding environment. Cadets take rigorous course loads of 18–20 credit hours per semester, engage in daily military training and leadership development, and maintain high standards through regular room and uniform inspections. Their days often begin at 6 a.m. and extend into the late evening, and summers are spent in intensive military field training. Cadets also participate in regular parades and ceremonial duties and are required to compete in athletics at the NCAA, club or intramural level.
All cadets attend West Point on a full-ride scholarship valued at over $225,000. Upon graduation, they receive a Bachelor of Science degree and are commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army.
Sollie will report to West Point in June 2025 for Reception Day, officially beginning his journey as a member of the Class of 2029. His appointment is a reflection not only of his personal excellence but also of the dedication and support of the Tuscola and Haywood County communities.
