Maxim Kruk is a student of kinesiology and physical education, with a concentration in exercise science. He is set to graduate this May at 19 years old. Kruk is originally from Minsk, Belarus. Kruk immigrated to Beacon, New York in 2014, where he attended elementary, middle and high school. He graduated from Roy C. Ketcham High School in Wappingers Falls at the age of 16.
Kruk received his diploma early by skipping both eighth grade and junior year of high school. Following graduation, he secured credits from summer and winter courses at a nearby community college. Kruk initially attended the University of Bridgeport for freshman year, running track and field. He then transferred to UMaine after being recruited as a student athlete.
Since then, Kruk earned one of the highest discus throw rankings in the world for his age group, and works as a Resident Assistant (RA) at Androscoggin Hall.
The factors that initially drew Kruk to UMaine were its track and field team and the kinesiology program that is offered. While the former men’s track and field coach, Brian Woodbury, transferred to West Point, Kruk expressed gratitude for Woodbury’s style of coaching. According to Kruk, “all my success comes from him.”
“Who he [Woodbury] is as a person drew me to the school, and the very much family-like team here,” said Kruk.
Kruk described his transition to a college environment at a younger age than most students as “simple.” He shared that the adjustment was easy because of his maturity. Kruk also offered advice to students who are currently balancing their careers as athletes with a full-time courseload.
“You have to do what you need to do, not what you want to do. Instead of going out or watching Youtube, you’ve got to get your work done first. Definitely tracking things [helps],” said Kruk. “I have a humongous calendar with a bunch of homework I have to do [and] when I have time to study or do extra training.”
In terms of support, Kruk is grateful for his long-distance girlfriend, Cassandra Chorba, as they support each other academically by studying on the phone and being a source of consistent encouragement. He is also grateful for his best friend since grade school, Alex Hooper, as they have learned from each other’s experiences and grown together throughout the past eight years.
“Additionally, Cassandra’s parents, Joseph and Christina [and sisters, Jenna and Jaylyn] Chorba, have been instrumental in shaping the person I am today. Their kindness, wisdom and generosity have shown me what it truly means to be a good human being and to always uplift those around me… [Alex’s] parents, Stephen and Elena Hooper—whom I have the privilege of calling Uncle Stephen and Aunt Elena—have also imparted valuable life lessons, including the importance of prioritizing responsibilities over desires,” said Kruk. “Their guidance has been a significant factor in my ability to graduate early and set my sights on bigger goals.”
Kruk described his experience as an RA as “rewarding” and “fulfilling.” He established strong friendships with other residents in the building, and enjoyed the aspect of hosting community-building events to increase connection among students.
“For anyone who is passionate about community engagement and personal growth, I strongly encourage exploring the RA position. It is an unparalleled opportunity to develop leadership, communication and problem-solving skills while making a genuine impact on the lives of fellow students,” said Kruk. “As I prepare to graduate, I carry with me an incredible collection of memories, friendships and experiences that I will cherish forever.”
Kruk mentioned that his favorite class at UMaine was KP378, Exercise Prescription with Dr. Robert Lehnhard.
“He [Lehnhard] is actually retiring this semester… by far the best professor I ever had, extremely knowledgeable and straight to the point,” said Kruk. “You can’t not learn from him, you always learn throughout the whole class.”
Kruk opted not to compete this year to focus on completing his degree, but intends to continue track and field in graduate school. From there, plans to enlist in the Air Force Security Forces, which involves base defense. Kruk’s end goal is to eventually join the FBI.
