As the 10th graders at Federal Way Public Academy prepare to move onto a new chapter of their lives, they’re not just saying goodbye to their underclassmen days—they’re also reflecting on the lessons, friendships, and surprises that shaped their middle school and early high school experience.
Race Beebe, now preparing to say goodbye to FWPA, recalls entering the school thinking it would be extremely difficult. “My elementary teachers were telling me it was a college-level school,” he says, “But it turned out the work wasn’t as bad.” For Race, FWPA taught him the value of work ethic. “If you don’t put in the work, you’ll fail. I had to learn that.” Advice he thinks is important for all the upcoming 10th graders to know is to choose your Field Day group name carefully.
Adelai Totey came to FWPA in sixth grade, following in the footsteps of her older sisters. She remembers being overwhelmed by the thought of so much homework. “I told myself, I’m going to be here for five years, so I might as well get to know people.” Through her time here, Adelai learned to balance academics with connection, becoming more outgoing in 10th grade than ever before. One thing Adelai wishes she knew before coming to FWPA is that change is inevitable. “The school, the people, everything is going to change because that’s just life.”
Ariana Vlasyuk’s journey was different. She transferred from Rainier Middle School in Auburn midway through 8th grade. “At first, I was so confused on how the school worked,” she admits. But soon, friends helped her understand the school’s rhythm. Compared to her old school, FWPA felt smaller and more personal. “The teachers actually know you here and engage in conversation with the students.” For Ariana, learning to be more social was the biggest shift. Her advice? “Do your work, study, but also make fun memories. You’ll miss them.”
Ruby Jameson joined FWPA in 9th grade and immediately noticed something different. “Back in my old school, I barely interacted with anyone outside my grade or friend group. Here, everyone knows everyone. It feels like a family.” Since she didn’t know what to expect, nerves followed her into FWPA, but they were quickly replaced by comfort. “I wish I knew there was nothing to worry about—everyone here was so welcoming.” One lesson she’s taking with her: “Don’t let the haters win. Stay true to yourself.”
Angela Korneychuk also arrived with high hopes, largely shaped by her brother’s stories of his fun and cool teachers. “I was excited to have the same experiences,” she says. What surprised her most wasn’t the workload, but the size. “It’s such a small school—you really do know everyone in your hallway.” Angela’s advice is to get sleep and enjoy the small moments. “Don’t stay up doing homework all night. And for things like the 10th grade talent show, don’t stress about your costume. Just make it fun.”
Their overall advice is, take school seriously, make time for friends, don’t lose sleep over perfection, and, perhaps most importantly— when Field Day comes around, choose your idea wisely.
