While you're busy racking up House points and working on homework, take a moment to learn more about who is scoring more scales, decorating the common room, or just making the Dungeons more enjoyable!
June 2019
Iverian Gnash Gryffindor First Year
As a first year you've already taken quite a bit of classes! Do you have a favorite class so far? It's hard to pick just one! I've enjoyed all of my classes, but one of my favorites was The Magic of Forensic Science because I found the subject really interesting.
If you've read my previous columns, you know I like to ask: What is your favorite piece of HP merchandise (store bought or hand-made) that you own? My favorite is this gray Hogwarts shirt I have because it's super comfortable.
Have you ever been to any of the Harry Potter theme parks? Do you have a favorite? I've never been to a Harry Potter theme park actually.
What do you look forward to most this summer? I'm going to an FBI camp that I'm super excited about! Also, I'll have a lot of free time for the first month of summer, so just free time in general LOL
What is your favorite weather season and why? I like winter because it's not blistering hot and I was born in the winter.
What Muggle class do you think would be good for witches and wizards to take? Mathematics definitely because so much of what we do revolves around math in general.
For fans of Harry Potter, what other book/movie series would you recommend? The Hunger Games and The Lunar Chronicles would be at the top of the list because those books are the ones I read right after Harry Potter.
Have you played any Harry Potter themed games (video, card, mobile, or board games?) I've played Hogwarts Mystery and Fantastic Beasts Cases on my tablet which I enjoyed.
Do you know any good jokes? A duck walks into a store and asks the owner if he sells grapes to which the owner says that he doesn't. The duck continues to come in every day and ask the same question until the owner gets frustrated and says, "If you ask me again, I'll nail your beak to the floor." The duck comes in the next day and asks, "Do you sell nails?" The owner says that they don't and the duck, relieved, says, "That's good, do you sell grapes?"
One atom said to another, "I think I lost an electron!" The other atom said, "Are you positive?"
What do you plan to do when you graduate? I still have a few years before I graduate, but I would like to work in the FBI, maybe as a computer scientist.
Do you remember how you felt when you were first sorted into Gryffindor? Did you agree with the Sorting Hat, or feel there had been a mistake? I had always been more of a Slytherpuff, so I was rather surprised when I got Gryffindor.
Which mode of magical transportation do you prefer? Apparition is my favorite because it gets you where you need to go the quickest.
Sky Alton Gryffindor Sixth Year
Summer is almost here! Once you've completed your studies for the year, what do you plan to do until the fall term begins? I’ll be doing my favourite thing on HOL: organising! Gryffindor has a fun (and explosive) summer activity in the works and I’m hoping to get some other plans up and moving for the next school year too. I also want to find some time to develop a couple of new class ideas that have been brewing in my head for a while. It seems counterproductive (not to mention lame) to relax and unwind with more work, but hey, it’s what makes me happy.
As you've probably read in past interviews, you know my favorite question: What is your favorite piece of HP merchandise (store bought or hand-made) that you own? I love my official HP jewellery, in particular my Golden Snitch pin and Time-Turner necklace. However, nothing is quite as special or unique as the Luna Lovegood radish earrings that Prof. Dario Brighton crocheted for me. (Also I feel like I just cheated by mentioning lots of things, oops.)
Do you think Voldemort or Grindelwald was a scarier threat to the Wizarding and Muggle worlds? While we saw Voldemort cause more damage, I actually think Grindelwald was a more insidious and terrifying threat. That’s simply because of the way he could win over people’s minds with his ideals and the way his stance seemed to make sense. Voldemort was obviously a ‘big bad’ and he could only truly gain loyalty from those who lusted after power or who were petrified of him. Grindelwald could sway even ‘good’ people into supporting him and justifying atrocities.
Wizarding children are often taught at home before going to Hogwarts at 11 because they cannot control their magic enough to go to Muggle Schools. Do you think this works, or should there be some kind of "pre-school" for witches and wizards under 11 years old? It certainly seems to work. I do worry about the quality of education though as it will vary wildly from household to household. By the time they get to Hogwarts, they need to be able to read, write and do maths as those things aren’t taught separately. So while I think the magic can probably wait until 11, I really think there should be some basic requirements as to what they’re taught in terms of ordinary subjects. Also, they need to socialise with other kids their age, even if those kids are non-magical.
When you hear that another new Wizarding World thing is coming out (book, movie, game, etc.) are you excited? Or indifferent? Or something else? I’m excited but not quite as much as I was when the books were coming out. I feel like I have all that I want with the original series (and to a lesser extent the 8 HP films). That’s not to say I don’t love having new knowledge about the HP universe (particularly stuff we can adapt for HOL), just that it’s more pleasant than heart-stoppingly exciting.
You've done AMAZING on your O.W.Ls, earning 12 OUTSTANDINGS! Any tips for next year's fifth years? Aww, thanks. Read each paper carefully at the start of each month, even if you don’t have time to make a start on it right then. At least that way your brain can mull over what you’ll write later on and you know exactly where you are in terms of what you need to look up.
Do you have any recommendations for podcasts or music albums to listen to during our summer break? I’ve been listening to a lot of movie soundtracks recently; music with ambience (additional sound effects like birdsong or rain) are particular favourites right now. I love them because they really set a mood for a task or for something I’m writing/reading. There are plenty of options on Youtube so you should be able to match something to what you’re doing or find one that involves your favourite fandom.
As head of the Library Department and a fantastic writer, do you have any advice for those who struggle to write more than a few sentences of a story? Yes, do it little and often. Even if you can only write a couple of sentences a day, you’ll still be chipping away at it. If you make yourself do a tiny amount at a set time, you’ll slowly work through the fear of not knowing what comes next. Also, don’t be afraid of writing something that isn’t good: writing is something that takes practice to come right. You wouldn’t expect to be an amazing dancer or tennis player your first (or even fifth) time of trying.
Do you have a favorite spell/charm/hex? Decoration charms like Hermione uses for Harry’s 17th birthday or the golden bubbles Flitwick uses to decorate the Christmas tree in Philosopher’s Stone. I like shiny things and magic that has a bit of flair.
Do you think it is better for an actor to be a fan of a show/movie series they're cast in, or better that they've never watched any of it before? I can definitely see advantages to both. It’s important that they put their own stamp on a role and don’t feel unnecessary pressure to make it exactly like what’s gone before. In a lot of circumstances a new character will be totally new to the ‘world’ of the show too so being slightly unsure might help with authenticity. However, I think it can help to understand the nuance of a character if you understand the situation they’re finding themselves in so I’d probably go with the former.
What else do you think Newt could use to carry creatures, in addition to his suitcase? Maybe he could take a leaf out of Voldemort and Glinda the Good Witch’s books and plump for a giant floating bubble. It wouldn’t be great for wandering around the Muggle World but in magical locations, the creature in question could watch the world go by.
Would you ever take a blood oath or Unbreakable Vow for someone? I’d like to say ‘no’ because I pride myself on being practical and seeing the grey areas in situations; I like to be able to adapt and to change my course of action if things aren’t working. I’m highly emotional and loyal though so I’m pretty sure I would under the right (or wrong) circumstances. I spend a lot of my life persuading myself not to charge into situations and do what first comes into my head but it doesn’t always work! :P
March 2019
Start Light First Year
Dexter York First Year
When you're not in class or doing schoolwork, what else do you like to do here at HOL? I like to read the different newspapers and see what new is going on in HOL world.
Now that the first term is almost over, is there anything you still have questions about at HOL? No, I don't have any questions now that the first term is over.
The Fantastic Beasts series is going to be FIVE movies long! After they're all out, do you think that will be it? Or will there be more movies from JKR? Do you WANT more movies? I love Fantastic Beasts. I can't wait for all five. I don't think that will be it. Mainly because I think I heard they are turning Cursed Child into a movie. Also I don't want them to be the last movies. I really want a Marauders series, movie or book would work for me. I need it so bad.
If you had met Harry Potter his first year, knowing all the stuff that was to come in his time at Hogwarts, what advice would you give him? I would tell him that in his 5th year to stick with the Occlumency lessons and don't trust the visions.
What is your favorite piece of Harry Potter merchandise (handmade or store bought) that you own? My favorite Harry Potter Merchandise I have is my Time-Turner.
It's said that the Sorting Hat put Harry in Gryffindor because he asked for not Slytherin, but Neville was also put in Gryffindor despite pleading to be in Hufflepuff. Do you agree with the hat's decisions? I think Neville would have been happier as a Hufflepuff just because they would be more like him, but I think the Sorting Hat made a good choice by putting him in Gryffindor because it taught him more and helped him grow more as a person than I believe he would have in Hufflepuff.
What has been your favorite thing at HOL so far? My favorite thing about HOL so far is taking the classes mainly because it gives me something to do.
What is your favorite treat when it's cold outside? Hot chocolate with lots of mini marshmallows.
Is there anything you're looking forward to this spring? For the spring, I'm looking forward to my white rose bush to bloom again.
Do you go to any Harry Potter themed things in real life? I don't go to as many Harry Potter themed things as I would like but I try to go to as many as I can.
If you had to create a super team of witches and wizards but had to include one person from each house, who would you pick? For Hufflepuff, I would go with Newt Scamander, but he would be old at that point, so if I couldn't choose him it would be Nymphadora Tonks. My Ravenclaw would be Luna Lovegood. The Gryffindor would be Hermione. For Slytherin, I would choose Crabbe.
Hogwarts is home to many witches and wizards. Do you think other species, such as Vampires, Veela, or Centaurs, should be allowed to attend? I think that shouldn't be allowed unless they were going to add more class specifically for them. Major of the classes afford at at Hogwarts are targeted at witches and wizards.
What do you think one of the lessons they learn in Muggle Studies might be? I think something they would teach in Muggle Studies is similarity between their worlds. For example, like how discrimination due to the color of people skin, like the Muggles do, is similar to how the wizards and witches discriminate between Muggle-borns and pure-bloods.
Do a lot of your real life friends also like Harry Potter? No not really. I only have two friends and neither have read the books or seen movies.
Do you have a favorite class so far? Charms.
If you've read my previous columns, you know I like to ask: What is your favorite piece of HP merchandise (store bought or hand-made) that you own? I don’t own any.
Have you ever been to any of the Harry Potter theme parks? Do you have a favorite? No.
Is there any advice you'd like to give from for your time here at HOL so far? Joining HOL IRC will help you get to know people faster.
What is your favorite weather season and why? Winter. I enjoy watching people struggling with snow and ice.
What Muggle class do you think would be good for Witches and Wizards to take? English. International communication enables progress.
For fans of Harry Potter, what other book/movie series would you recommend? I don’t really read fantasy books, but I recommend trying dystopian literature.
Have you played any Harry Potter themed games (video, card, mobile, or board games?) I have played HP video games on Playstation 1 and computer. They are worth your time.
Do you know any good jokes? Radium, Radium, Arsenic, Arsenic, Arsenic. Radon, Molybdenum, Radon, Molybdenum, Molybdenum. Gallium, Gallium, Oxygen, Lanthanum, Lanthanum.
What do you plan to do when you graduate? Take over the magical world or become a professor.
How did you feel when you were first sorted into Slytherin? Did you agree with the Sorting Hat, or feel there had been a mistake? I expected to be sorted into Slytherin or Ravenclaw. I’m glad it was Slytherin – these are my people.
Which mode of magical transportation do you prefer? Apparition. Everything else is a waste of my time.
January 2019
Alexander Barnes-Rogers First Year
If you had gone to school with Harry Potter, would you have joined him in the final fight against Voldemort, or would you have gone away with the other Slytherins? I would have joined Harry. I may be a Slytherin, but I like to stand for what is right.
Now that the first term is almost over, is there anything you still have questions about at HOL? No, I pretty much have had all my questions answered.
What activities do you like to do in your free time? I like to write whether it be my own stories or fanfiction. I also like to read.
Would you say Harry Potter is your favorite fandom, or is there another that has first place in your heart? I would say Harry Potter is a one of many of my favorites, because I have many.
Do you ever listen to the HP soundtracks on their own, or only as part of watching the movies? I only ever listen to them as part of watching the movies.
What is your favorite piece of Harry Potter merchandise (handmade or store bought) that you own? I would say the books, since they are my own.
What has been your favorite thing at HOL so far? My favorite thing about HOL so far has been the classes.
Are you currently reading any books that you'd recommend? No, I am not reading anything right now except fanfictions and the first Harry Potter book.
To promote unity, the Head Office is considering getting rid of the "house tables" in the Great Hall and replacing them with smaller round tables with 6-8 chairs that anyone can sit at. Do you think this is a good idea? Yes, I do think this is a good idea because it encourages Houses to mix, and everyone to make friends with other people in other Houses.
If you had to create a super team of witches and wizards but had to include one person from each house, who would you pick? I actually don’t know on HOL, but in the Harry Potter universe, I would include Harry Potter, Theodore Nott, Blaise Zabini, Hermione Granger, Fred and George Weasley, Luna Lovegood, Susan Bones, Penelope Clearwater, Bill Weasley, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, Neville Longbottom, Charlie Weasley, Filius Flitwick, Severus Snape, and a few others.
Where is your favorite place to eat? My favorite place to eat is hard to say, because I have many places I like to eat. But otherwise I like to cook from scratch.
Did you read the books or watch the movies first? I watched the movies first because I didn’t comprehend what I was trying to read in the Harry Potter books.
What is the most disgusting food you've ever tried? I would have to say crab and Brussels sprouts.
Have you been to the Harry Potter theme park at Universal? If yes, what was your favorite part? If no, do you plan to go? No, I have never been to the Harry Potter theme park, but I plan to go in the future when I have to the money to go.
Arianna Stonewater Fourth Year
I have interviewed quite a lot of Snakes (and some Badgers/Eagles in Snake Skin!) since I started this column in January 2016. I thought it only fitting that as I am turning 30 this year I should answer some questions myself! When I message someone (or they ask to be interviewed), I usually send them 14-15 questions and ask them to answer at least 10. So I've picked some questions they decided not to answer and here are my answers to them!
If you got detention and had to work for Filch for one day, what would you hope your punishment is? I'd hope it was something like polishing silver where I could learn about all the awards and who won them, or something else fairly easy where I can learn things too.
What is your favorite Chocolate Frog Card? I love #3, Elfrida Clagg's card. The description says "1612-1687, Chieftainess of Warlock's Council" and her image just looks so cool with all of the swirly green smoke.
What is your favorite shop in Hogsmeade and why? My favorite shop is Honeydukes Sweetshop. I LOVE candy and I just want to try everything they sell!!
How do you feel about the ghosts in the castle? I really like having them! They've been around for so long, I feel like we can really learn a lot from their experiences, plus it's fun to see them float through the First Years!
Do you have any Harry Potter tattoos? Yes! I actually just got one for my 30th birthday! It's my Patronus, a Thestral, coming out of a wand on my left forearm.
What is your favorite type of muffin? It's a tie between blueberry and chocolate chip! As long as it has those little sugar crystals on top, though, I'll probably eat it!
Do you think the Fantastic Beasts movies should have been a TV series instead? I kinda hoped it would be a TV series, so then they could put more detail and we could get something new every week instead of waiting months or years between something new! Plus a lot more of the background information could be put in the episodes instead of being "behind the scenes" stuff on the DVDs.
If Neville had been the "Chosen One," who do you think the trio would have been? I actually think Hermione would still be part of the trio; she met Neville early on (remember, she was helping him look for his toad on the train?), but I don't know that there would have been a third....perhaps Luna or Ginny when they started at Hogwarts?
If you could cast only one spell in real life, what would it be? While it would be cool to see my Patronus, I think I'd want some kind of cleaning spell to make my life easier!
And of course, my favorite thing! What is your favorite Harry Potter merchandise, handmade or store bought? Previously I would have said the Time-Turner that I made myself, but for Christmas this year my sister-in-law knitted me an illusion scarf of the four houses where if you look at it straight on you just see stripes, but if you look at it from an angle you can see that House's Crest! The Slytherin one especially looks really cool!
October 2018
Amaryllis Storm First Year
Obviously, you love Harry Potter! We already know that, but what else do you love? Are you a member of any other fandoms? Oh boy, where to start! I love Naruto, Supernatural, Lord of the Rings, Kingsmen, and Marvel (and in Marvel, I adore Wolverine) mostly in that order.
Do you have a preference for the movies, or the books? Why? I prefer books, usually. If I have read the book, I avoid the movie as I will pick it apart relentlessly.
This is a question my readers will tell you I ALWAYS ask, because it's my favorite! What is your favorite piece of Harry Potter merchandise (handmade or store bought) that you own? I have none, neither handmade or bought, but I do have a design for a wand I would love to create one day!
If you could save one person who died in the series, who would it be? Severus Snape! Hands down, in a heartbeat, no questions asked!
We already have some major clues about the next movie, Crimes of Grindelwald. What do you think might happen in the movie that comes out after this one? I would love if they went further back and tackle the founding of Hogwarts and how the rift between Slytherin and the other three supposedly happened.
Many students bring owls, cats, or toads to school with them. What would you choose to bring? A peregrine falcon or white raven.
What is one Muggle food you really want them to start serving in the Great Hall? Orange juice, really really REALLY hate pumpkin juice!
In real life, would you rather know cooking spells or cleaning spells? I love cooking, so I would rather learn cleaning spells.
Have you ever met any of the actors from the Harry Potter movies (or any other famous person)? I have met the wrestlers Ric Flair at the airport in Puerto Rico and Goldberg at the Jacksonville County Fair while doing volunteer work. I have met various Jaguars players... that's about it as far as I can remember.
What is your favorite holiday and why? Christmas... It's a time for family. In my family, we cook a huge feast and retell stories about growing up. We laugh and dance and just have fun.
Do you have a favorite game you like to play? For physical games, it's volleyball; for video games, it's Lord of the Rings Online; for board games, it's The Game of Life.
What is your favorite fall activity? Drinking hot chocolate!
What book(s) or movie(s) would you recommend to someone who just finished the Harry Potter series and loved it? Either the Septimus Heap series by Angie Sage or the Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini.
Were you enamored with the Harry Potter story right away or did it take a few books/movies for you to really become a fan? Actually, I am the kind of person that reads pretty much everything, but I remember seeing the first book in a supermarket and for some reason passing it by. Sometime later there was a news story, a very small one about a lawsuit.
In 1999, just after the first Harry Potter book was released in the United States, American author Nancy Stouffer started writing letters to Scholastic, Rowling’s U.S. publisher, in which she claimed to have authored books in the 1980’s entitled The Legend of Rah and the Muggles and Larry Potter and His Best Friend Lilly. Stouffer allegedly claimed that the Harry Potter books infringed her copyrights and trademarks in a number of ways, because one of Stouffer’s books had a race of beings called "Muggles" and another had a protagonist whose name rhymed with Harry Potter and wore glasses. Scholastic filed an action in the Southern District of New York, seeking a declaratory judgment of non-infringement.
That piqued my interest further, so when the movie came out I watched it and I will admit I was hooked, I later got my hands on a copy of the book. That was the clincher for me. Great story, coupled with a rags-to-riches backstory on the author, and an underdog winning against someone trying to claim her story for their own led to a lifetime love of Harry Potter.
What is your favorite Fantastic Beast? Pickett the Bowtruckle
Draco Riddle Second Year
Having just been a first year, what advice do you have for the new batch of first years? For First Years, don't hesitate to message other students or Professors if you have questions on where to go. I understand Hogwarts may be a bit large, but everyone here makes you feel like family.
What do you hope to accomplish this school year? This school year I not only want to learn new things in my classes, but I hope to participate in activities happening around the school. If I ever get to that point... I'm always reading a book.
Having seen the old layouts, what do you think of the new HOL look? The new HOL look is more user-friendly. Thinking back on the old layout, I had to click around a lot and deal with pop-ups to other areas of the site. I am anxious to see more things being added soon.
What is your favorite fall food? Hmm, my favorite fall food would have to be soup. It can be any kind of soup. My most favorite is Greek soup called avgolemono.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and who would you take with you? If I could go anywhere in the world, it would be to t he Galapagos Islands. I would take with me anyone really, family or friend. I heard a lot of amazing creatures are there!
Have you only ever considered Hogwarts or did you think about attending one of the other Magical Schools as well? Well, I heard of Hogwarts in 2001. I didn't get my acceptance letter till the year of 2012. I learned of other Wizarding schools. Even though I'm from America, I'm surprised Ilvermony hasn't contacted me. Oh, well, Hogwarts beat them to it I guess. I'm very fortunate to be here.
There have been several Do-It-Yourself classes here at HOL , including Wand-Making and Broom-Making. Do you enjoy making your own things or would you rather buy the items you need? I'd rather buy things. I'm not an inventor at all, but I have tried making planes and trains in the Muggle world that kids play with. I find reading instruction manuals hard.
Not including classes, are there any activities here at HOL you love doing? I haven't really participated in activities here. I'm such an introvert I don't know where to start. It will be helpful if someone gave me recommendations.
If Squibs were given a chance to attend Hogwarts, do you think they would be sorted into one of the four houses or would they get their own house? Well, I think Squibs will be sorted into one of the four houses regardless. Just like how some Muggle-borns are sorted into Gryffindor. That's my take on it. I mean, since Harry Potter graduated in 1998. Last year, Albus Potter, joined Hogwarts. I think it's time for Squibs to be accepted into the Wizarding schools.
What one spell would be most useful to you in real life? One spell that will be useful to me in real life is the Diffindo spell. I'm always searching the house for scissors and I think this will come in handy.
June 2018
Emma Borg Sixth Year
Let's start off with my favorite topic: Harry Potter merchandise (handmade or store bought). What is your most recent acquisition? I don't actually have any merchandise per se, just multiple copies of the books. I have crocheted baby blankets in Gryffindor and Slytherin colours for a friend, but I didn't get to keep my work. That being said, the baby apparently seemed to like them! However, I have a poster that says; "Keep calm and carry a wand."
Looking back on the school year, what did you enjoy most? I definitely enjoyed getting back into SQT! Everyone has been lovely, and, of course, playing Quidditch is fun too.
Would you have signed up for Dumbledore's Army? I might have signed up for the DA, but being a Slytherin, I might have been excluded on principle. That, and it is highly likely Slytherin had their own secret practice sessions.
What were your favorite books growing up? I read everything I could find, from The Power of One, to Harry Potter, to A Brief History of Time.
If someone made a GIF of you, what would you be doing in the GIF? I would be at work, and slumping with my head onto my desk (someone will have inevitably asked a daft question).
What is one food in the HP universe you would never try? Liquorice wands. I really don't like liquorice...
What is something you'd love to win a lifetime supply of (not including money)? Does knowledge count? It would be nice to not have to revise constantly!
Would you rather shovel snow, rake leaves, or mow the lawn? I enjoy mowing the lawn! We don't really get much snow, and I don't like how leaves get everywhere.
Which HP character had the biggest impact on your life? It's difficult to say who had the most impact. I despise Albus Dumbledore, but love Severus Snape, not just for his whole 'unrequited love' routine but also for his brilliance at Potions.
Are you involved with any other fandoms? I am a fan of Lord of the Rings/the Hobbit. Anything from Marvel is awesome, not to mention Star Wars, James Bond... I could go on, really.
Shadow Gaunt Ravenclaw First Year
What one creature from the HPU (Harry Potter Universe) do you wish you could have as a pet, or at least meet in person? I wish I could have a Phoenix as a pet because then I wouldn't have to spend any money or time on traveling. Plus, a Phoenix is phenomenal at getting one out of sticky situations. A Phoenix also has healing tears and it is practically immortal. A Phoenix isn't just useful though, it gives happiness to those around it and thus it would make a great companion.
As a Ravenclaw from the Roost, what keeps you coming back down here to the Slytherin Dungeons? Well, I guess because I've always considered myself a Slytherclaw. Often I feel like a Ravenclaw and often like a Slytherin. Plus I love the Silly Snakes games, and please if you're reading this vote for the sherbet lemon.
What is your favorite kind of activity to participate in here at HOL? I love participating in DoGHaS challenges, HOLLERS, and HOL-wide team activities. I love meeting people from all over HOL and especially when participating together as a team you can't help but become friends.
Have you ever been to any Harry Potter book releases/themed parties/events? If so, what was your favorite part? Sadly, I have not been to any releases but I have been to one party at Barnes and Nobles. I remember being stuck in the middle as all the people there were either in their 20s or children under 13. But I still had fun and drank a lot of Butterbeer. I actually became great friends with the lady at the Butterbeer stand. If you're reading this, thank you for making such great Butterbeer; it was amazing.
Now that you are finally passing your first year, do you have any advice to new students for next fall? Manage your time. If you know you'll have a busy year, especially if you're in school, don't try to take 5 classes a term. Again, if you are in school, focus on school. Education is the most important part of your life; don't throw it away. Also, if you do take 5 classes, do them one at a time. Try to choose classes with no monthly deadlines so that you can do one class or similar per month. That's what I did the first term and even though a failed a class, I still got 4 quills.
As for the actual assignments, if you are able to choose, do first what seems easy for you (quick points) and then look at the other parts and see what seems most exciting for you. If you cannot choose split everything up and perhaps do half an assignment per day.
Have you met/written to any of the actors from the movies? I wrote a letter to Emma Watson and then chickened out and never sent it. I think I addressed it just as "Emma Watson, England" and that was it. Definitely not the best moment of my life.
What are you most looking forward to doing this summer? I am most looking forward to two things happening. The first is I will be moving to a state in the EST timezone in early July and while I am nervous starting a new school, I am excited for it. Another things is I will be going to a mathematical camp for 3 weeks and I am extremely excited. Otherwise, I'm just happy to take a break from school and be able to learn what I actually want to. For example I have started going through an online course on astronomy and so far I'm loving it.
In the movie series, some of the characters had to be recast for various reasons. Is there anyone who you wish had been replaced but wasn't? I guess if I was looking at this as if I only watched the first movie, I would have some ideas. However, I have watched all the movies so many times, all the characters are now imprinted in my brain. I really cannot imagine any of them differently. If I see any of the actors, especially main characters, I immediately make the connection to their character in Harry Potter.
Is there an award that you really want to win here on HOL? Not really, as long as I know I'm helping people and making them happy, I don't really care about awards. If I get one, of course I appreciate that people have noticed me, but if not, then I guess it just wasn't meant to be.
In the future, do you think you'd like to teach a class here? What kind of class would it be? I already tried teaching a class and I didn't read the directions. Whoops. But yes, I am planning and have already started on a class I wish to teach in the fall. I am thinking of trying out something I've never seen in an HOL class before. I also have a list of class ideas I could teach and I'm hoping to get through it in 2 years. Some of my ideas include a class on cryptography, arithmancy, and Rubik's cubes.
Let's end with my favorite question: What is your favorite piece of Harry Potter merchandise (bought or hand-made)? My favorite piece of Harry Potter merchandise is a fairly recent gift from my grandmother (who randomly gave it to me one day). It's a Ravenclaw journal with a Ravenclaw pen and it's so pretty and well made. I absolutely love it, and have begun writing in it just about a week ago. The cover has some cloth covering it and it's quite smooth to the touch. There are two ribbons to mark places in the journal and it has parchment-like paper.
March 2018
Bianca Delacroix Third Year
Now that you're approaching the halfway point in your schooling at Hogwarts, what was your favorite part so far? Even though I am not the best student (I can be easily distracted sometimes), I love the classes. There are so many subjects and something new to learn every time!
If you weren't in Slytherin, where else would you be? Well I actually was sorted to Ravenclaw, so I know I should have been there. But I love Slytherin. I squibbed about a year after joining HOL because it was in the Dungeons that I made my first HOL friends and we just got on.
What are you looking forward to doing this spring? I'd like to try writing book chapters for the Library. You get additional house points and I've never tried to write one before so I think that would be a fun goal.
What is your favorite thing to snack on during the spring showers? Oh, I am the snack queen. Snacks are my thing. I can't even choose just one so I will say at this very moment I'm eating a couple mini-croissants with a cup of coffee. I like to dip them in the coffee.
Aside from the books/movies, what was your first ever piece of Harry Potter merchandise (handmade or bought)? Wow, I am trying to think back that far since I've acquired quite a collection by now... I think it was a Slytherin house t-shirt. This was way before HOL but I love the color green and who doesn't love being the "bad guy" sometimes?
What kind of activities are your favorite to participate in? I love puzzles, games, and anything art-related.
The HP series started out as books, then movies, games and amusement parks. What medium do you think they should do next? I actually don't want them to keep doing the HP series. I kind of feel like it will be diluted unless they are introducing new information. What I wish they'd do is keep expanding the theme parks. I hope they are incorporating some of the Fantastic Beasts world into the Universal Parks. More authentic food items too.
What is something from the books you wish were in the movies? I honestly like that they departed from the books for the movies. It makes it almost two different experiences for me so I wouldn't change anything in hindsight.
What tertiary character do you want to know more about? Probably Rolf Scamander, Newt Scamander's grandson who ended up married to Luna Lovegood. He was a magizoologist and apparently was supposed to be the character that told the Three Brothers story in the Deathly Hallows but was ultimately cut so that Xenophilius could tell it instead.
What kind of pudding would you like them to serve in the Great Hall? Well to turn this one on it's head I think I'd like them to do an American pudding, which is custard to the Brits. But I think it'd be funny for them to call it an American pudding and have the Hogwarts kids confused about why they are getting a warm egg custard instead of a sausage.
What is some place in your country you've always wanted to visit? I live in the United States and I've have never been to the desert but I would love to go and take photos of the landscape and cacti. It would be a very different environment than where I currently live. So either the desert or the Pacific Northwest because, again, different landscape.
Aside from Harry Potter, what other fandoms do you belong to? None, HP is life.
What is your favorite class so far? I really liked the Potable Potions I. You get to do some lightweight cooking, and I get to wave my wand (the same as Ginny's) and say incantations while I drink multiple attempts at butterbeer and other fun concoctions.
Have you been sorted at the American school yet? If so, do you prefer that or Slytherin? I have but I don't think they've released enough information for me to choose my American house, Horned Serpent, so I'll stick with Slytherin.
What is the hardest part of HOL for you? The hardest part for me is also my favorite part, the classes. I find it difficult to keep up as my real life distracts me from HOL quite often but I love signing up for them and reading the lessons even if I can't end up completing the assignments or receiving a quill. I just sign up for them over and over until I finally get the time to pass them. I have many ideas for new classes and at some point I will sign up to be a student teacher too.
Cody Lewis Professor
As a professor who joined HOL a very long time ago, is there anything you wish you had done as a student before becoming a professor? I wish I had earned more points while I still could. At the time, I was so focused on winning Quidditch Cups, I never considered how sweet it would have been to win the House Cup. Now it seems like we’re getting closer and closer each year, and I wish there was more I could do to contribute to that goal.
What is your favorite class to teach? Gobbledegook has been so much fun to teach so far! On multiple occasions already, I’ve had students reference things they learned in Gobbledegook outside of the classroom. That’s pretty satisfying.
Do you have any advice for graduating students? Haha, nope! I never actually graduated from HOL, so I have no idea what that’s like. I guess just don’t take your last days as a student for granted. Enjoy it as much as you possibly can.
If there was a fifth house, what do you think the mascot would be? I’d like to think, if there was a fifth house, that it would be for those with a good sense of humor. So based on that, maybe a monkey? What is the best way to befriend the Giant Squid? I’m not sure there’s a best way, just the same way you would befriend anyone else. Introduce yourself and get to know her. Don’t be shy, she doesn’t bite!
What is your favorite piece of Harry Potter merchandise (handmade or store-bought)? I'm tempted to say my new Slytherin jacket, but I have to go with my Quaffle. I won it for winning an SQT botting tournament called Race for the Quaffle. It’s kind of a physical representation of all of my favorite times on SQT, so I don’t think there’s a single piece of merchandise in existence that could replace it.
What is your favorite version of Quidditch (Wizarding Way-flying on brooms, Muggle Way-holding brooms while running around on grass, HOL Way-trivia based, some other way)? I’ve never played Muggle Quidditch, and as much as I love HOL Quidditch, nothing beats the real thing. I’m deathly afraid of heights, but I’m not sure even that would stop me from flying around on a broom if I got the chance.
Which is better and why: pumpkin juice or butterbeer? Butterbeer! I tried some once at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. That was several years ago and I still think it’s one of the most wonderful things I’ve ever had. Definitely butterbeer.
Have you heard of any secret passages to get to the Dungeons from the Great Hall faster? After the Great Dungeons Flooding of 2015, we actually had an enormous cat flap installed for the Giant Squid. You’re free to use it as well, if you’re willing to get a little wet!
Would you rather have hot weather (70*F or more), cold weather (40*F or less), or somewhere in-between? I like it somewhere in between. High 50s, low 60s is perfect for me. Cold enough so that I can go for a walk without breaking a sweat, but not so cold that I need to wear more than a light jacket.
January 2018
Amy Lupin Professor
What have you enjoyed most about being a professor? Being a professor has been very rewarding. I’ve always enjoyed the effort that students put into their assignments, and I find I can often learn something through them.
Aside from the books/movies, what was your first ever piece of Harry Potter merchandise (handmade or bought)? When my dad and brother went on a cycling trip to Russia some years ago, they brought back a hand-painted matryoshka doll for me, featuring Harry, Ron, Hermione, Hagrid and Dumbledore. I still keep it on my book shelf.
What kind of classes would you like to see more of at HOL? I’d like to see more classes about people’s interests, be it language, history, theatre, art or literature. It would be a great way to learn about different topics and also would indirectly allow one to get to know others better.
Now there are young kids who are able to read all of the books in a row, without waiting years. Do you think it is better this way, or was it better to grow up with Harry year after year, even if the wait was long? As much as I found the wait between books long, I rather enjoyed growing up with Harry. I started reading the books at the age of 9, which was the same year Goblet of Fire came out and was 16 by the time the series finished. The books became increasingly darker or heavier, so in some ways I’m glad to have had the wait in between books. I remember certain scenes in Goblet of Fire bothered me when I first read it, so I am concerned young kids might be similarly affected.
What has been your favorite activity to run/participate in? I loved the ‘End of the World’ activity that was run in 2012. Around the time there was a lot of speculation swirling around about the possibility of the world coming to an end, so several HOLers ran an activity based on that. There were puzzle tasks and you had points for different traits that you had to spend wisely, but the main focus was writing, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
My favourite activity that I ran was the Hogsmeade Literary Festival. I’ve never actually attended a literary festival before, so this was the next best way to experience one. I enjoyed working with Sky and Tarma on it, and I was also really impressed with the effort that participants put into their submissions.
Do you have a favorite award that you've won? My favourite award is probably the Special Services to Slytherin Award. Everyone in Slytherin was very welcoming when I first joined the house, and I’ve enjoyed contributing to the house as a result. I was really gratified that people valued what I was doing for the house.
What is one section at HOL you want more people to know about? The Book Club! I might be a bit biased as I'm one of the people running it, but there’s a lot of lovely discussions and fun activities on offer.
Do you have a favorite beverage to drink while reading? I'll often read with a mug of tea close by, even during the summer. I usually have regular black tea with milk, but occasionally I'll treat myself to a chai latte.
Are there any fan theories about HP you like and think/hope are true? I thought the fan theory of Poppy Dursley, Dudley’s daughter, becoming a witch and setting up a magic-compatible-shop with her sister was quite sweet. It added a nice dimension to Harry’s and Dudley’s relationship, as how they parted ways in Book 7 really helped open the door to that. I also recently came across the idea that Draco may have been a werewolf, and it seems rather plausible in some respects. I sympathise with the plight of werewolves, and, while I wouldn’t wish being a werewolf on anyone, there’s something comforting about there being other werewolves out there, and that one isn’t alone in being a werewolf and trying to lead a normal life (such as in Remus Lupin's case).
Do you have any advice for aspiring professors? Don’t be afraid to ask for help with your class. Plenty of HOLers who have experience teaching classes are only too happy to help you out with any questions you might have. If you would like bounce your ideas off of someone, and/or if you get stuck with planning the lessons or assignments, someone is bound to be willing to help you out. If you find it difficult to stay on top of your grading, then feel free to take on an assistant.
Naevia Heartridge First Year
How did you find your way to HOL? I've actually been a member of HOL for many years, but school and university got in the way, so I never really had a chance to be an active member. I actually booked tickets to see Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets live in orchestra, which spurred my craving to jump back on after all this time!
What are you most looking forward to this school year? I think finally becoming an active member and being more involved with other students – I'm really glad Arianna's asked to interview me as a first year Slytherin!
What is your favorite fall activity? I would say definitely snuggling up in bed with a cosy comforter, Netflix, and a cup of hot cocoa.
If you've read the column before, you probably saw this and the next question coming: What is your favorite Harry Potter merchandise (handmade or storebought) that you own? My mahogany wand with unicorn tail! But I am super proud of a Slytherin scarf I knitted for myself that keeps me fairly warm in winter.
Aside from Harry Potter, what other fandoms do you belong to? I'm a huge fan of the Star Wars and Lord of the Rings franchises, and I've recently been swallowed up by the Rick and Morty fandom.
Have you always been sorted into Slytherin, or was this a surprise? Not a surprise at all, I'm Slytherin – always have been and always will be!
How do you feel about the Fantastic Beasts franchise? Are you excited about the universe expansion and upcoming movies? Oh, 100% I'm excited for it! I loved how Fantastic Beasts was directed and I think Eddie Redmayne is the purest thing on earth – he portrayed Newt's character brilliantly! It's refreshing to see magic outside of the Hogwarts setting and being introduced to new characters we otherwise wouldn't have met.
If you had attended Hogwarts with Harry Potter, would you have been friends with him? I would have liked to have been! I'm not sure what kind of whispers there would be about a Gryffindor and a Slytherin being friends, but as individual people I think we would get on quite well.
After graduating, what do you want to do? Teach? Work for the Ministry? I think I'd want to work in the Muggle Liaison Office! In our world I know there can be a fair few accidents where magical creatures wander into the Muggle world or even a rogue witch or wizard, and I think I'd be a good mediator between Muggles and ourselves to resolve issues and bring harmony back to our worlds.
As you may have heard, first years are not allowed brooms. Had you been allowed one, what type would you have chosen? Though outdated, I'd probably go for a good old-fashioned Nimbus 2000. It never let Harry down (until it smashed to pieces, of course), but it looks sturdy enough for me!
October 2017
Luke Starlight First Year
I heard you like Classic Rock/Rock. What artist(s) would you recommend someone new to the genre? I would probably recommend any song from One Republic for someone new to the genre.
What is your favorite after school snack? My favorite after school snack would have to be soft pretzels with cheese.
In many cases of the paranormal, there is often multiple ghosts, but usually only one poltergeist. Why do you think that is? I think that there is only one poltergeist because the other ghosts may be around to keep the evil spirits away and there is usually only one evil spirit that is still around in many cases.
What do you think of your classes so far? Are you enjoying them? I love my classes that I am taking this term. I am taking Astronomy, Potions for Beginners, and Norse Myths and Legends. I really enjoy all of these classes.
Do you think the HP movies would have had as many fans if they were animated instead of live-action? No, I do not believe that the HP movies would have had as many fans if they would animated instead of live-action.
Many students at HOL fit in multiple houses. If you weren't in Slytherin, what other House might you have been sorted into? If I wasn't sorted into Slytherin, I would probably be sorted into either Ravenclaw or Gryffindor.
Do you have any family members who are also into Harry Potter? My sister-in-law is also a really big Harry Potter fan.
They say "the wand chooses the wizard." In the beginning of the series, Neville was a sub-par wizard with low-self esteem and a hand-me-down wand. Later, he's got confidence and he's pretty good with his second wand (his first wand having been broken in the Department of Mysteries). Do you think the fact that his first wand was a hand-me-down and from someone who was still alive (his father) had an effect on his ability to do magic? I do not think that the hand-me-down had any effect on his ability to do magic.
As you progress through the Harry Potter books, Harry gets older and the tone gets darker. Do you think this was a wise decision, or should it have stayed lighter like the first book? I believe that it was a wise decision, because it shows all the events that happened throughout Harry's school years leading up to Voldemort's demise.
Do you think Durmstrang and Beauxbatons also have medieval style castles? Or are they something different? I believe that Durmstrang and Beaubaxtons also have medieval style castles.
Anna Snape Second Year
What is your favorite part of HOL so far? That’s a difficult question to start with. I really love the classes; they were the reason I signed up on HOL. However the cozy Slytherin dungeons charm me too.
If you weren't in Slytherin, where else would you be? Not in Slytherin? What? Suppose I wouldn’t exist then.
What are you looking forward to doing this school? I look forward to learning new things and breaking my house point record. I would also like to participate more in HOL-wide events and maybe I’m going to make some other common rooms unsafe. (I’ll take my pet snake with me…) Let’s hope I’ll find a gap for that in the upcoming RL and HOL homework.
What is your favorite after class snack? I really love chocolate frogs, though I sometimes take a nosebleed nougat, but that’s right before or during class of course ;)
Aside from the books/movies, what was your first ever piece of Harry Potter merchandise (handmade or bought)? I never bought anything else than the books. Still waiting for my letter to drop on the doormat I guess ;) I made some drawings for The Marauders 101 class last year, perhaps that counts as handmade merchandise.
What kind of activities would you like to see next fall? Definitely another HOL writing month! I had little time in May, so I would like a second chance. I’d also like to see more puzzle activities. I absolutely love solving puzzles.
Imagine the Harry Potter books had been turned into a TV series instead of the movies. Do you think that would have been better? Or is there not enough for weekly episodes, season after season? I think there is enough content to make a TV series, the Wizarding world is quite huge. I have no idea whether that would’ve been better or not. My personal experience with books turned into series tells me that the series tend to absolutely not follow the books. I like it more when the content of the books and the content of the movies/series based upon them don’t contradict each other.
What is something from the books you wish were in the movies? I’d love to hear and see Lee Jordan commentating the Quidditch matches, with Professor McGonagall reprimanding him. I always have to laugh when I read that. Or an even better moment: when McGonagall tells Harry to “have a biscuit” after being sent to her by Umbridge. Amazing.
Most students bring an owl, cat or frog to school. What animal would you like to bring? A snake. Not a dangerous Nagini look-a-like of course, but something like a grass snake to keep Basil company.
What do you want to do when you graduate? Teach? Work for the ministry? Something else? I’d love to work as an Auror. However I’ll first have to pass my O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s with top grades...
What is some place in your country you've always wanted to visit? I live in a very little country, so I visited pretty much everything worth visiting. Maybe I should make a road trip to explore the hidden treasures in my country or something.
Do you think technology could find a place at Hogwarts? Electricity and magic don’t exactly match and who would be even interested in technology if you have magic?
Should more lions, badgers and eagles visit the Dungeons or would you like to keep it a snake zone? Well the Dungeons are a snake zone, but to me that only means that there are mainly snakes. Those lions, badgers and eagles are always welcome to visit the Dungeons and participate in events!
Do you know what your Patronus is yet? If yes, what do you think? If no, what's keeping you from finding out? I did the test on Pottermore, but my mouse wasn’t working well, so I chose ‘river’ instead of ‘forest.’ As a result it said my Patronus was a salmon…
Do you have any advice for incoming first years? Take your time to explore HOL and don’t hesitate to ask if anything is unclear to you. Try out some classes and activities but most of all: don’t be afraid of the scary second year … me.
June 2017
Aurelia West Third Year
As you are approaching the end of the school year, what was most hard for you this year? This year was my first full year back on HOL and also my first year at university, so what I was most worried about was managing my time efficiently. While I did manage to turn in everything I wanted to turn in and participate in a decent number of activities, I was scrambling near deadlines a few times too many for my comfort so I'd say that was what was most difficult for me this year.
Do you have any advice for first years? I'd say to at least try your hand at everything if possible. There are so many fun things at HOL to get involved in, and it's easiest to find the ones you love the most if you try them all out. Of course, it's important to also recognize how much time you really have on your hands to devote to HOL because RL often calls and it can be unpredictable.
What are you looking forward to this summer? I'm definitely looking forward to having a lot of time to read and spend time with my family. I'm also down for the idea of having picnics with friends as well, as long as the weather permits it!
Aside from HOL, are there any other fandom (Harry Potter or otherwise) things you participate in (conventions, running clubs, other roleplaying sites, etc)? I attended a good amount of conventions while I was still in high school, and took to cosplaying to them as various characters, but lately HOL has been the main fandom thing I take part in.
What is your favorite way to cool down in the summertime? Well, I can never say no to ice cream, even in the wintertime, so probably that.
Before Harry Potter came into your life, what was your obsession? Are you still into it? Considering I read the Harry Potter books when I was around 8-9 years old, I don't remember a whole lot before that. My friends and I were in love with the Warriors series in elementary school, and I remember loving the Magic Tree House books but that's all that comes to mind immediately. I'm not really into either of those anymore, though I did join a Warriors roleplaying site for a bit at some point during middle school.
What food from the Harry Potter books or movies would you most like to try? I'd really love to try any of the pumpkin-y things mentioned in the books, as I really enjoy pumpkin pie. I also would be interested in Toothflossing Stringmints as they seem both tasty and useful.
If there was one person who's fate you could change in the HP universe, who would it be (i.e. Sirius would live, Ginny would die, etc)? I definitely think I would have changed Sirius's fate. I still get upset whenever I think about how Harry had just found Sirius and he then got ripped away from him. Especially considering how lonely Harry ends up feeling at points during the last two books, I would have kept Sirius by his side.
I feel like I ask everyone this, but I have to know! What is your favorite piece of Harry Potter merchandise (official or handmade)? This is a tough one, but I've always really loved the time turners because I think they look so cool and something I would wear on a daily basis probably. I also came across a pocket watch with the Deathly Hallows sigil on it once and had to seriously work to talk myself out of buying it. Based upon that, I'm thinking I like merchandise that I can wear to represent Harry Potter in a low-key manner rather than anything large and grandiose.
Do you have any siblings/cousins you like to hang out with? What do you do for fun with them? I have one younger sister who I mostly hang out with since most of our cousins are a decent amount older than us. When we were younger, we'd play pretend and I'd attempt to read her the Harry Potter books (she fell asleep a lot). To this day she still likes to find as many quizzes on the Internet as she can to test my Harry Potter knowledge and we have long conversations in the car when she's making me drive her places.
What is the most fun thing to do in your town? I actually live in a fairly large city so there's a ton of things to do. Some of my favorites include going to science museums and art museums, and wandering around outside in parks.
Have you been to any of the Harry Potter theme parks? If yes, what was your favorite part? If no, do you plan to go in the future? I haven't been to any, which saddens me to no end. I really would love to go someday, but as of now don't have any plans.
How did you pick your HOL name? It started with some character name I'd come up with for a story I never wrote I think. One of my hobbies actually used to be looking up names and creating characters, though I never put them into any stories.
Scarlet Leslie-Lewis Professor
What brought you to HOL many years ago? I clicked on a link to HOL in someone’s AIM profile and decided to join!
Do you prefer being a student or teaching? If I could be a student again, I would do it.
What was your favorite class to take? To teach? Magic in Famous Mysteries was a great class. It really made me think and I liked it so much that I brought it back for others to take. Teaching-wise, my favorite is Journey of the Hero - no contest.
As a teacher and admin for many events, what is your favorite award to give out? Ugh, I’m actually sick of awards. I get tired of uploading them, but I know a lot of people love receiving awards. Unfortunately, that means I don’t have a favorite one to give out. I do like being able to reuse awards over the years.
What advice would you give to anyone who wants to try out for the Slytherin Quidditch Team? Bot, bot, bot. Bots are your friends. Bot frequently, but constructively, and play in pickups whenever you can.
Are there any past HOL events you wish would make a comeback? I miss the pure puzzle competitions, like Starry Night.
What newer HOL events have you enjoyed participating in? HOL Life! I enjoyed participating in an event with Cody instead of running one with him. There was a good mix of tasks and I like games that involve dice.
If you had to narrow it to 3 things that kept you coming back to HOL year after year, what would they be? HOL is my creative outlet. I love the classes and the people... usually ;)
Slytherin is arguably the most active common room when it comes to participation from all four houses; though I've heard that was not always the case. Do you think it's better with so many "outsiders" in the Dungeons, or should we do some more house-specific events to bring Slytherins closer together? Slytherin has always been one of the smaller houses, so that makes it difficult to get enough people for activities. With fewer and fewer active people on HOL, especially in the common rooms, I think it makes more sense to open up activities to all houses.
One of my favorite questions, because I'm nosy: what is your favorite Harry Potter-themed merchandise (handmade or store bought)? I very recently bought Harry Potter: Hogwarts Battle. It’s a cooperative deck-building board game. Before that I’d say my Golden Snitch and my copy of Half-Blood Prince because I had to track down the American version of the book when I was in Taiwan.
What are you looking forward to doing this summer? Seeking! Despite a good season as a Keeper, playing Seeker is what got me into Quidditch and will always, always, always be my favorite position. No one has ever won back-to-back Snitch Tournaments and I’d like to attempt to do so. In RL, I'm hoping to do some relaxing, exploring the East Coast with Cody, and dragging him to play volleyball.
While enjoying summer, how early do you start preparing for the fall term as a teacher/student/Quidditch player? Definitely by August, but, knowing me, probably a little earlier.
Hogwarts is a vast place with many hidden spaces. What room do you imagine exists somewhere in the castle, we just never heard of it? The Snitch Sanctuary! For all of the used Snitches to fly around and spread their silvery wings.
March 2017
Polaris Black Ravenclaw Fourth Year
Are there any other fandom-based websites you participate in? HOL is my only guilty pleasure!
IRL, what is your favorite kind of landscape (i.e. beach, lake, mountains, woods, city, etc)? Although I love living in the city, I find being near any kind of water restorative, unless it makes me sea-sick first!
Was there anything we've learned since HP7 Part 2 came out that really surprised you? I’m going to restrict my answer to the HP series and Pottermore. I was surprised to learn of Prof. McGonagall heartbreaking personal life and that Prof. Umbridge was even more despicable than originally thought.
What is your favorite drink to warm you up during the winter holidays? Actually, I prefer hot chocolate to butterbeer.
Is there anyone at HOL who was instrumental in getting you to stick around past your first semester? I was a lurker my first semester but I did participate in some extraordinary activities: Rowena Ravenclaw’s Tests of Logic, Operation Well of Magic, and Huffle HOLidays, I credit the organizers (Prof. Scarlet Leslie-Lewis, Prof. Amy Lupin, Mattie Rayne, Prof. Cassie Lobiesk, and Prof. Tarma Amelia Black) for piquing and thereafter maintaining my interest. And of course it didn’t hurt that Prof. Kyrie Adderholt made me feel like she was my very own personal cheerleader!
What do you wish we did more of at HOL? For those of us who just can’t manage to meet the demands of Quidditch, I’d love to see another sport or club created (like Gobstones) where we could compete as individuals.
Did you start reading the books first, or watch the movies first? I read (actually listened) to the books first and then went to the movies opening day with a group of friends. Although the cast was perfect and the special effects excellent, I was always disappointed in the movies. But in fairness, I like them better the more I see them.
Basil needs to know, who do you like more; Basil, or Brabas? That’s like asking me if I prefer Blue or Bronze. It’s one impossible choice – I truly love them both! The Dungeons wouldn’t be the Dungeons without both your mascots.
What do you like most about coming to the Dungeons? EVERYTHING! There’s always something new, and challenging, and thought-provoking, and interesting going on. I particularly like being a guest team-mate and contributing to the win!
What would you say to bring more Snakes into the Roost (or do you like your snake-free nest)? I wish the Roost would host more open activities. And I love teaming with Snakes – they’re great competitors!
Maxim Trevelyan Hufflepuff Second Year
What is your favorite part about being in the Dungeons? I love all the activities that snakes partake in and that other houses are allowed to join! Dungeons are always bustling with activity, which is always great to see.
What is your favorite non-human in the HP universe? Oh, that one is hard. I was not as interested in non-human characters, I have to admit, but they rarely appear in the story for a longer period of time. I think my answer here would be The Grey Lady. While she was human when she had been alive, during the book series, she was a ghost. The Grey Lady had a tragic backstory full of bad decisions, but she owned up to them at the end with a little bit of coaxing and contributed to the finding of the lost diadem.
As you are starting the spring semester of your second year and becoming more active throughout HOL, what advice do you have for someone who has just joined? Be active! I know it can be scary at first (certainly was for me), but joining HOL and House-wide activities really helps you meet more people. You can also contact your house prefects and (some) professors, they are always willing to either give advice or just chat about things.
I read in your profile that you started reading HP around the 4th book. Did you like having 4 books available to you as you were reading, or did you prefer the anticipation of waiting for each of the three next books? Yes, I did. I always like that if I fall into series (either be it movies, books or TV episodes) that either part or all of the books are already out. I have a tendency to swallow books in days, so I would get impatient if I had to wait days, not to mention years on the next release.
Do you think more Snakes should visit the Sett? Definitely! Hufflepuff always has great activities for non-badgers. Sometimes we have an activity, but every month, we have four DoGHaS challenges and many diamonds with bragging rights.
What other book/movie series do you recommend? Another hard question! I definitely recommend Inkworld series, I really enjoyed them when I read them. And all three books are already out! Stravaganza series, another great one, is more urban fantasy, and is tragic at times, but so good. I am sure there are more, but those two immediately jumped to my mind.
Are there any other sites like HOL that you participate in? Dear goodness, no. Sometimes I feel as if I have barely enough time for HOL, much less other sites like it.
You have a lot of shinies! Do you aim to get them, or do they often come as a surprise? Most of the time, they catch me as a surprise. I never aim to get them, however, I do try to do my best in all classes and at The Sett and I guess that is enough for shiny material.
Having been a student, class assistant, and teacher; which position do you prefer the most? Can I pick one not listed? Out of listed, I prefer to be a student teacher. There is certain allure and feeling of accomplishment when people sign up for your class that was made with love, tears, blood and sweat. But most of all, I love being on the Class Committee. We are the ones that make sure that if a professor or student teacher disappears people who took the class still get their points. It is the most amazing feeling to know that someone still has those students’ backs if the original teacher did not. That the class takers’ work will not be in vain. Both positions are very rewarding and I simply love it!
Are there any classes you wish you could take at HOL? Certainly! Sometimes I get bored and browse HOL oldies’ profiles and see many classes that are really interesting, especially if the websites are still available. Magic in Forensic Science, Dragons, Surviving Fantasyland, Muggle Studies: British Television, Boom! The Battle of Hogwarts are some of those that I would take.
Before your parents sent you to Hogwarts, did you consider trying to go to any of the other schools? They did wonder if they should send me to Ilvermorny, but since we would move to Europe, they thought better that I should do all my years at Hogwarts.
Do you think wizards should have to pass some sort of test to be able to work in the Muggle world (to make sure they would be in keeping with the statute of secrecy or something?) Yes and no. I do believe that some basics should be covered, but a test is not something that I believe really determines how a person functions in Muggle society. Instead of a test, perhaps a course that covers the basics about living as a Muggle.
How would the HP movies been different if they had been animated instead of with live people? Depends on the style of animations, I think. Whether it is western (like Disney) or eastern (Studio Ghibli). I think the tone of the series would take quite a different turn depending on the style, but I would not be adverse to see both!
What new information do you hope we'll get from the rest of the Fantastic Beasts series? I am really not that much concerned with additional information as I am that it does not go against the canon like Cursed Child did. I just want to be believable, in accord with already established canon with good actor/actress picks (I am still on the fence about the one playing Grindelwald…).
Did you play any of the HP video games (for any format)? If yes, what was your favorite? If no, why not? I did! I played all ‘official’ ones for PC. My favorite are Prisoner of Azkaban, because we collected cards; Goblet of Fire, because that is my favorite book and Half-Blood Prince, because of potion-making and general air of amusement that wafts throughout the entire game.
January 2017
Tarma Amelia Black Hufflepuff Professor
What not only brings you to the Dungeons but keeps you coming back? I really enjoy visiting the Dungeons; there are so many opportunities to bring presents and see if they explode. I also enjoy the many fun things to do.
How did you pick your name? Tarma -- is the name of a person in a book I was reading (her full name 'Tarma shena Tale'sedrin'). Black -- I wear a lot of black. Also, Sirius Black. (I think I'd read through book 4 before I joined HOL?) Amelia is a name I added when I became Professor. It's a name I like and it's also the name of a favorite 'old' rose (and rose bush) - the Amelia rose (an Alba rose).
What was the most helpful class to take as a student? The class taught by Professor Angel -- it's why I joined because it was about animal spirit guides. I thought - this would be a great class and since this online school has this great class, why not join the online school -- try it out? So it was helpful because 1) it was a great class and 2) the teacher was absolutely awesome.
What is your favorite class to teach? All of them. I absolutely love hearing from students about their experiences encountered during the class studies. I think that the stories I enjoy the most come from Wand-making and The Hobbit, though. (Those are also the classes which I wrote -- I didn't write the Charms class.)
What are your favorite kind of activities to participate in? Unsure of what you mean. Are you talking of HOL activities? If so, almost everything.
If HOL were taken over tomorrow, what other fandom would you most like to see have a school? Dresden Files; Tortall; Wheel of Time; The Mortal Instruments; Neverwhere; Mercy Thompson
What is your favorite part of the Dungeons? Everything I can see. I like reading the Journals. I like participating in different activities. I like gathering Scales. I don't like not being on a team. >.<
Do you have any advice for first years? Do everything that you want to do which seems fun to you. If you want to sit and watch for a while, do that. If you want to jump into activities from the get-go, do that.
How do you feel about TV shows that do Musical episodes? I don't watch TV. Am trying to remember a TV show which did a Musical episode... I do like movies which include music though!
What do you think Peter Pettigrew would have seen if he ran across a boggart? Himself cheating on the Potters
What is your favorite Harry Potter non-book merchandise (games/clothing/decorations/etc)? MY SCARF knit for me by Cosmo! I love it! She knit the most wonderful Hufflepuff scarf for me and since I don't like the colour yellow all that much, she did it mostly black with the yellow stripes.
If Harry Potter were written a la Zootopia, what animals would the students be instead of people? Would professors be different species? I think that the students might be sort of whatever their Animagi form would be. Unfortunately, beetles would have a hard time carrying books... I think the Professors would be simply older version of their student shape. If it was written a la Zootopia, though, I think that all of the students would have to be of sufficient size to be able to not get stepped on and squished so maybe beetles wouldn't be the way to go.
If you didn't go to Hogwarts, what other school would you like to go to? Beauxbatons -- I took that class this year and oohhh la la. I really like how they have the classes set up and the food there is incredible.
If you had to be Harry Potter for one entire book (note, book, not movie) which book would you like to be in? You do know I don't LIKE Harry Potter all that much from book 2 through halfway through book 7, right? I think I'd be him as he's starting out, full of wonder and wow-ness --- magic IS and it's okay and learning about it. Or be him as he starts to grow up a bit and realizes he can make unthinkable (but necessary) choices.
Dumbledore needs some new socks! What kind of socks would you give him? Not anything I made for him! I've never knit socks... not yet. I think I would give him regular thick knit wool socks (for wearing with his boots), some toe-socks with coloured toes and then some socks from Weasleys Wizard Wheezes which might do anything (and be amusing).
Gail Allen Ravenclaw First Year
How did you find your way to HOL? I actually found HOL through a good friend of mine. She used to be quite active on HOL, and she showed it to me. I looked around with her and she showed me some of the different places and I was very fascinated, and already then wanted to join. But I was so busy with my education that I didn't feel I'd be able to give it the attention I would want to give it. So I saved the link and decided to come back to it later. I finished my education last summer and found the link again and when I looked, HOL was still there. And I joined immediately. I haven't regretted it one bit since!
What do you think of your time in the Dungeons? I like spending time in the Dungeons. Especially participating in various activities. And of course meeting lots of lovely snakes, while trying not to be petrified by a basilisk.
What do you want to do when you graduate from HOL? I would love to teach! I am a teacher in real life. I think the classes at HOL are amazing and I would like to continue that later myself. For now though I am focusing on my studies and on getting enough knowledge about magic to be able to teach it one day.
What secondary or tertiary character would you like to have more background info on? I am utterly in love with the whole Marauders' era, and I would love more information on Sirius, James, Remus and Peter. We already have quite the body of information, but there is still a lot we do not know and I would be extremely interested in anything and everything that could be found out about them.
What kind of HOL activities do you enjoy doing most? Do I sound too much like a Ravenclaw if I say classes? Probably. But it is the truth. I love the classes that are available. Though I was also completely in love with the Sleigh Ride activity (the Hufflepuff December activity). I have also been sucked into quidditch quite badly and will have to say that definitely also gets up high on the list. I will have to say homework though as my all time favourite and confirm all prejudice.
If JKR had never written HP, what would you be doing with your time instead of HOL homework? I would most likely have played role play. I do that quite a lot already as it is, so it may well just have been more. Or I may have played more Sims. I am very fond of that game. Or of course read books which is also something I already do a fair amount of. Probably a combination of the above actually.
Imagine someone from another fandom took over Harry Potter; what character would you like to see handle Harry's life? I think I would like to have watched Sam Vimes from Terry Pratchett's Discworld series trying to handle Harry's life. Whether it be young Same Vimes or old Sam Vimes, I think it could have been entertaining. Him or maybe Polly Perks from the same fandom.
Not including HOL, what is your favorite HP themed thing? There is a book that takes all kinds of references from the HP books and explains what they refer to. I find this book extremely fascinating, because even the references I did know before, are expanded and it makes it clear how much depth there is to the books.
Would Harry Potter have changed at all if Dudley was a girl instead of a boy like Harry? I don't think so actually. I think Dudley's gender is completely beside the point. It's what he does that makes an impact. Now maybe if Dudley had not been as physically strong and therefore been less able to beat Harry, that would certainly have made a difference, but a girl could have been just as physically superior to Harry as a boy, so it would have to have been a change in attributes rather than gender for there to be a change in the outcome.
Do you have any (made by you, a friend, or bought from somewhere) Harry Potter artwork? I unfortunately don't which is very sad now I think about it. I will have to remedy that soon. I might like to do something Marauder related. Maybe get a poster of the Map. That I would really like.
Is seven years enough time to learn the rules of magic before being allowed to use it in the "real world"? Yes, I do think so, though I think it is absolutely deplorable how everything else seems to be completely forgotten. The students are expected to write exams and do calculations for constellations, yet they do not have a single literature or math class. I think that is very questionable and doesn't prepare them for the world at all. Just imagine people going to work for the ministry, who never had a social studies class in their life or presumably know anything about politics or anything. And small wonder they have goblins at Gringotts. The students at Hogwarts don't have math. So they stop learning math at 11 - and that is being kind and assuming they learned some before. Though certainly some people (Malfoy, etc. didn't go to muggle schools to learn, so hopefully their parents taught them). So I am far more worried about not learning 'muggle subjects' than I am about having only seven years to master magic.
If you could be a fly on the wall, what character would you most like to see come across a boggart? (That is, who's boggart would you like to see?) Are we talking only Harry Potter Characters here? If so then I would like to see Dumbledore's boggart. If we aren't, then I would be curious to see Sam Vimes'. (I think it is becoming very apparent that I am reading Discworld right now.)
What is your favorite magical mode of transportation? I like the Floo network. It seems rather fun and fast. Not to mention of course also a good deal safer than other modes of transportation. It's also a little more constant than the portkeys but otherwise seems to serve largely the same purpose. Of course they do require a fireplace, so I see the need for the others too, but I like the efficient safety of this type.
In the future, is there any part of HOL you want to be more active in? I would like to be more active in the book club and in quidditch. I haven't gotten around to practicing as much lately as I wanted, but I will certainly be catching up on that I am sure. I enjoy it way too much not to.
What magical food would you most like to try? I would like to try chocolate frogs. I find them very fascinating and I would love to see the magic that makes the jump at work. And of course you get the cards with them! I would love to start my collection!
October 2016
Nora Nightingale First Year
What brought you to HOL? An old friend who I'm no longer in contact with used to be a member of HOL. Years later, I started thinking about it again recently. I'm so glad that I went ahead and checked it out after all this time.
Were you surprised to be sorted into Slytherin? Certainly. I own quite a bit of Slytherin stuff (clothes, a notebook, etc.), so I would've been pretty disappointed to be sorted otherwise. ;)
What are you most looking forward to for the new Fantastic Beasts movie? Everything. Experiencing the magical feeling of a new Harry Potter book/movie for the first time. Just thinking about it gives me chills.
What is your favorite creature (magical or non-magical)? Magical: I'd probably have to go with a Jarvey. They're basically talking ferrets that are only really capable of spouting short, rude sentences. They're quite amusing. Non-Magical: Probably either the elephant or the bat.
When you're not on HOL, what do you do for fun? Or for not-fun? I'm a mom to an awesome three-year-old. I work at a coffee shop; sing; play guitar and ukulele; go out on adventures with my daughter, my Hufflepuff boyfriend, and our dog; read; write; craft; and stargaze.
What are you most looking forward to getting out of your time here at HOL? So excited for the classes. I'm also looking forward to meeting new people and getting back into roleplay-style writing.
What is your favorite piece of Harry Potter Merchandise? I have a baseball-tee style Slytherin Quidditch shirt and a pair of black sweats that say Slytherin down the side, like you'd get for a high school sports team. Love them.
Aside from Harry Potter, what other fandoms are you in to? None as much as HP, but I'm a bit of a Fallout nerd.
What secondary (or tertiary) character from Harry Potter would you like to know more about? Moaning Myrtle. I bet she was an incredibly sensitive and kind girl before she was killed.
What kind of activities do you like to participate in (writing tasks, puzzles, etc)? Writing tasks, especially prompts and roleplaying. Puzzles of all kinds. I'm a big board game buff. Card games too. I used to play chess, and I'd really like to get back into it.
Do you believe in Bigfoot? I believe it's absolutely possible.
If you had to be stuck in the common room for an hour with one of our house pets, who would you choose, Malumbrabas, Basil, or The Giant Squid? I'm gonna have to go with Basil. He seems pretty sweet.
Alice Gistrene Fourth Year
What is your favorite part of being in Slytherin? So far, Slytherin always find a way to amuse me. I can't think of myself being in another house. All things are just perfect.
What is something you wish you had done more of in your previous years as a student? More active and earned loooooots of points. But, I still have enough years to do it in the future (as a student).
Aside from Harry Potter, what other fandoms do you participate in? Does a band's fandom counts? Lol. Nope, just Harry Potter for me, although I'd love to read other books.
How else could Ron and Harry have gotten to school instead of stealing Arthur's car? Err.. I don't know. Floo powder? I am not creative >.>
What is your favorite non-Slytherin HOL activity? Globe Blitz. It's the first time I got into a group activity and I had a blast.
What is your favorite class so far? Every class which I received full points is my favourite! Oh, and A Visit to Hogsmeade class should be in the list because I have failed to pass it two times and now I finally made it. I really wanted to graduate from that class.
What do you like to do in your free time, IRL? Hanging out with my friends or just stay in bed, reading a book.
What is your favorite holiday to celebrate, IRL or on HOL? IRL, it will be summer holiday. On HOL, it's Slytherin Autumn Activity and Slythmas.
What do you think the boggart turns into when it comes across Prof. McGonagall? Hogwarts is on fire or damaged. She loves Hogwarts from the bottom of her heart.
What non-primary Harry Potter character would you like to know more about? The life of James Potter. And his friends.
What kind of things do you like to do with your pet owl, Beauty? Seeing her flying freely is the most satisfying thing to see.
Are you reading any interesting books/watching any tv series right now? Nope for now. But, I am planning to finish Heroes of Olympus once I get the time.
Do you have any advice to the first years? Hey, first years, just keep coming! I know real life could be really hectic someday but just remember to keep coming. Explore more around HOL, you'll find enough reasons to stay and keep coming here.
June 2016
Selene Blackwell First Year
How do you feel about being sorted into Slytherin? Have you ever been sorted into a non-Slytherin house? Ms. Stonewater, I'm going to be completely honest with you, which is not something I always am! I thought I was a Ravenclaw. My entire family is full of Ravenclaws except for my mother, who is a Hufflepuff. When my older sister, Mollie Blackwell, mo1014, was sorted into Slytherin back when she was 11, I didn't think that there was a better place for her and that's when I realized there were options outside what our family was! I am ambitious, I want what I want and I want it wholly. I will be patient for what I want and I will do what I need in order to obtain it. Those are very Slytherin qualities and as I continued to grow and learn about myself I realized that Slytherin is where I truly belonged.
What is your favorite piece of Harry Potter merchandise? I actually have a pair of sweatpants that have Slytherin written on them and my girlfriend has a pair of sweatpants that have Ravenclaw written on them! Even though I am a Slytherin I didn't move far away from the love of knowledge and now I love someone who loves knowledge. I think it quite fitting that a Ravenclaw ended up as my "other" and we've been together for 5 years now!
What are you most looking forward to here at HOL? Ooh, the classes, most certainly! I just graduated from college (YEAH) and wanted to get back into learning things I enjoy and just being my good ol' nerdy self.
What brought you to HOL? Google did. But I brought my sister, Mollie Blackwell, with me!
What is your favorite kind of challenge (i.e, writing tasks, puzzles, art, etc)? I enjoy writing tasks and also learning. I'm excited to get started with classes as soon as I am confirmed by the professors! I would also love to write sporadically for the Serpentimes!
What would you do if you found someone who illegally enchanted a muggle item? I think that these sort of ethical questions are very situational. Is this muggle item meant to hurt people or is it enchanted to hurt people? If a muggle machine gun was enchanted to float and pull its own trigger and the bullets made to go through wards then I would report that immediately. If, however, someone had enchanted the same muggle machine gun to make tea I wouldn't have any problem with that. Don't we have an ethics board for that? Wasn't there an ethics board that found Dumbledore's brother guilty with regards to that incident with a goat? I only heard rumors but I assume it was an ethics board...?!
Do you have any pets? I have two lovely dogs, a lab-mix and a schnorki, and a Ball Python, which is almost 4 feet long and is 5 years old now! They are my babies.
What kind of classes are you looking forward to taking? OOH! YES! My favorite subjects: Healing Herbology, Ancient Runes, Earth Magic and I decided to try out some Quiddich.
Aside from Harry Potter, to what other fandoms do you claim patronage? Lord of the Rings. Seriously. Major Nerd for LOTR. I was #1 in my area of the world for many many months on QuizUp until I stopped playing because there was no one there to truly challenge me except myself. I also try to stay on the fringe of the Superwholock fandom, but if I were honest, I would admit that I'm waist-deep with the rest of tumblr.
Who do you think you would be friends with if you went to Hogwarts the same time as Harry? One thing I couldn't stand about the HP world was the significant lack of social workers, the presence of bullying, the terrible double standards and two-sided hatred from Gryffindors to Slytherins and visa versa! If I went to Hogwarts at the same time as Harry I would purposefully put myself in Slytherin, even though I would already most likely be put in Slytherin, so I could assist in transforming the culture of the castle into one of logic and reason instead of blind hatred from fights our fathers had that we have no part of nor any reason to join! I feel as though Malfoy and Granger could have been good friends considering how smart they both are. I would have tried to break down the cultural barriers that allowed Lord Voldemort to obtain such a strong foothold in that society. Not all Slytherins are evil and not all Gryffindors have good intentions.
Finally, the Giant Squid is demanding a tribute of one ickle firstie every term (so two a year) or it will wreak havoc on all the students who come near it. What do you think we should do? Why would a squid want first years? What would a squid possibly want with humans? This doesn't even make sense! Squids typically eat smaller meals such as plankton and fish and where the heck is the Headmaster? *runs away* HEADMASTER!!!
... If the giant squid needs human sacrifices it won't be me! I only have to run faster than the people behind me!!! *Runs harder towards the headmasters office!*
Allyson Celestra Fourth Year
What character would you be interested to see use the Mirror of Erised? I'd be interested in seeing what Bellatrix or Fred would see.
If Ginny had been born a boy, what do you think Arthur and Molly would have named her? Hm, I'm not sure. I'm not creative so maybe she'd just be Jeremy or Jimmy.
If you could have any non-standard pet at HOL (i.e. anything other than a toad, owl or cat) what would it be? I'm not sure if this counts as a standard pet, but I'm definitely digging pygmy puffs.
Are you going to get a copy of the Harry Potter and the Cursed Child script? I'm going to ask for it for a graduation present!
What do you want to do when you graduate HOL? Work with magical creatures. (Not sure if I was supposed to answer this in character or IRL)
What is your favorite crossover fandom (i.e. I love the idea of Doctor Who with Disney Princesses)? I think Harry Potter and Marvel sounds cool.
What kind of activities do you enjoy best (i.e certain puzzles, art work, etc)? I love logic puzzles and I'm a fan of yoga.
Have you had any interactions with Brabas or Basil? Not yet.
What's your must-have dorm room item for the summer? Definitely a fan.
Are you taking any trips this summer? I'm heading to the Bahamas on a cruise with my family. (Not sure if IRL or HOL >_>)
What is your favorite class at HOL so far? That's a very hard choice. Probably Care of Magical Creatures or Pokemon 101.
Who is your favorite Harry Potter character and why? My favorite is Luna, because she's eccentric and honest.
What is your favorite Harry Potter joke? Knock, knock Who's there? Cornelius. Cornelius who? Well, that's politics for you.
Aside from HOL, what other Harry Potter themed things do you like? Are there certain blogs or podcasts you follow? Hm, everything themed I follow is Harry Potter.
What was the coolest Harry Potter themed thing you've seen for a party (i.e invitations delivered by owls balloons)? I'm not sure if these count, but I saw these really cool Marauder's Map wedding invitations.
March 2016
Will Lestrange Third Year
If you had to run the Triwizard Tournament, what tasks would you create? Is this an HOL version or a canon version? I'll go with something that can be interpreted both ways: -a dueling type event where you fight against magically enchanted dummies (HOL version: think of the defunct dueling program here) -a scavenger hunt type task where you solve puzzles that lead you to the next task (pretty obvious HOL translation) -a race through an obstacle course (HOL: typing broom race mixed with trivia and other challenges)
What is your favorite treat from Honeydukes? Chocolate cauldrons, especially if made with dark chocolate.
Now that J.K. Rowling has released info on some of the other schools, which one would you like to do an exchange program with? Ilvermorny; it's the closest one to where I am. I was very disappointed that there isn't a California wizarding school or one elsewhere in the western part of North America though. (My head canon still contains a Wizarding College of Los Angeles.)
What was your favorite award to win so far? Not sure if it's an official award, but I'll go with winning the Snitch tournament last summer, in a rematch of the finals from 2014!
What is your favorite HOL event (HOL LIFE, Slythmas, World to World, Wintry Mix, etc) so far? Rowena Ravenclaw's Tests of Logic (2013 edition)
What are you looking forward to doing this summer? Swimming, travelling, exploring my local area - and there are things to look forward to in terms of work as well!
What is your favorite kind of activity (puzzles, writing, graphics, dollz, RPG, etc)? Logic puzzles; I'm kind of competitive on those. ;)
What do you look forward to doing when you graduate? From HOL, you mean? That's still close to 5 years away – unless, of course, I get tapped for staff first. I see myself welcoming new Slytherins to one of the few places it's awesome to identify as a snake!
What is your favorite holiday to celebrate at HOL? Slythmas is usually the most fun because the Dungeons go all out and there's such an interesting variety of tasks to do.
What is the most difficult class assignment you had to do? In my second semester here, I took a class on how to be a successful Dark Lord taught by the then-head of house, Professor Daphne Marin-Booth. I took the class because the topic was interesting and I wanted to impress the Slytherin administration. When I got in, though, I learned that nearly every assignment was a fairly long (~500 words) essay! Writing that much can be fairly challenging, but I paid attention to the directions, made it through the essays and got myself a 300/300.
Have you ever been to a Harry Potter event (like Leaky Con, Leviosa Con, CONjuration, etc)? In LA, we had Whimsic Alley right there and I went to the last two movie releases there; the first DH release in particular was amazing! I dressed in Slytherin garb, was on a trivia team called "The Inquisitorial Squad," and we won the event at the store before going on a double-decker bus to see the movie itself.
Do you think you'll ever teach a class? I keep on thinking "not right now," but I was a teacher in real life for quite some time and I totally have the feeling that I'll end up teaching a class or two. Developing one seems fairly strenuous, though...
Some of the students are getting together to make a fifth house, for students who often fall in between the general ideas of the four current houses. Do you have an idea for a name? What about house colors? For a house with people who are well-rounded, I'm thinking of a house with a unicorn as a mascot, the name "Unicour," and colors of purple and orange ("neutral" relative to the houses).
What do you think Fleur Delacour sees in the Mirror of Erised? That's hard! I imagine she sees herself winning the Triwizard Tournament for Beauxbatons, with Bill Weasley (who never gets attacked by a werewolf in this fantasy) cheering louder than anyone else.
Cassandra Remington First Year
What awards are you hoping to get this term? That I actually don't know. I have not really been here long enough to know which ones are from which classes. I do hope to get one for being the student that has most points though. I do recall that being an award.
What is your favorite class assignment so far? That must be A Visit to Hogsmeade, no doubt. I love that one so much.
What is your hardest assignment? I would not say any of the assignments I am taking are that hard, but I do think I get quite the challenge when it comes to Chinese Festivals.
What kind of class do you wish you could take at HOL? Mmm, this site has so many different classes, but I do think it would be fun to have a "forgotten characters" class, where you learn about some of the more invisible characters from the HP universe... Someone like Susan Bones. Or maybe a class where you can dive into the family histories of the famous witches and wizards, taking a look at their ancestors.
What kind of activity do you want to see more of in the Dungeons? I personally love writing/RP challenges, so that could be fun! Maybe even a journal challenge of some sort?
If you could bring a pet aside from an owl, toad or cat, what would you pick? My first thought was a dog, but that would in turn probably be a bad idea. Maybe a falcon, just to say I have one.
What is your favorite Harry Potter merchandise (not including books or movies)? The Time Turner! I have one hanging next to my mirror.
What brought you to HOL? Boredom and a very, very long Google search.
What is your favorite crossover? (i.e. Harry Potter characters mixed with Lord of the Rings? Or Disney Princesses attending Hogwarts?) Supernatural x HP – I did a contest entry on that once and the thought of Dean running around at Hogwarts amuses me.
What do you think Nymphadora Tonks would have seen in the Mirror of Erised? Her family gathered, each of them smiling.
What would your boggart look like if you used the Riddikulus spell? A spider formed as a balloon animal.
What is your favorite snack to eat? Chocolate. Always.
Have you encountered Basil or Brabas yet? Nope, I don't think so!
What is your hope with HOL? Do you want to graduate and move on? Do you want to eventually teach a class? Maybe be a student forever? Short term: To make it through the first school year. Long term: Getting more active on the site, starting up some RP's and, someday, possibly even teach?
Are there any kinds of puzzles you'd like to see more of at HOL? I personally love all kinds of puzzles, so the fact that there are as many as there are, is amazing. Logic grids has to be my favorite!
January 2016
February Fortescue First Year
What is your favorite kind of puzzle to solve? I have yet to spot a puzzle I enjoy solving. I've taken the time to learn how to solve logic puzzles and jigsaw puzzles. I plan to learn Sudoku next, and perhaps Nanunanu as well.
What class are you most looking forward to taking next term? Charms, if it's being offered. Inventing magical properties for marshmallows found in Lucky Charms cereal sounds entertaining.
Which Harry Potter book is your favorite? How did it compare with the movie version? I loved Deathly Hallows. Severus Snape is my favorite character. I was very pleased with how the movie portrayed him, and I literally cry every time adult Lily looks at baby Harry and says, “Mama loves you. Dada loves you.” But once Harry jumps out of Hagrid's arms and fires that shot at Nagini, I turn the movie off, because in my mind, the rest of the movie is a failure. Even the scene where Molly dueled Bellatrix was rushed. And what's up with Voldemort turning into a bunch of.....ashes? Feathers? CGI guys showing off to each other?
If you didn’t attend Hogwarts, would you go to Durmstrang, Beauxbatons, or a Muggle school? Very tough question. I like a mix. Probably Durmstrang. Beauxbatons seems like a place where everything is beautiful all the time and I don't see that as reality.
What was your favorite award to win so far? Awards are always fun, but to be honest, Cody giving me the title "The Next Poster" has meant the most. People kept expecting me to post on the "Guess the next poster" thread, but I ignored them, and Cody then said I was going to be THE NEXT POSTER whether I wanted to be or not. I laughed for hours over that!
What is your favorite event (HOL LIFE, BINGO, Fallin’ into Autumn, etc) this year so far? I really can't decide between two. I enjoyed HOL LIFE because I got to team up with Max. For one thing, Max is completely dependable and loves to do puzzles, and she was very supportive of my creations, no matter how stupid they were. I got to do the writing and the graphics, and I have a tendency to be wordy and to overanalyse the prompts, but the very limited time span of the contest made me focus, which I liked very much. But I have also loved Slytherin's Snakes & Tinsel activity. Scarlet, Cody, and Amy have outdone themselves. I enjoy learning, and this activity has helped make the holidays even more real to me, and has allowed me to get a peek at how the different festivals are celebrated in other countries. The activities themselves have been varied and interesting, and not just endless coloring book pages. I also love how this activity is open to all Houses and that everyone can participate.
How do you feel about the new Fantastic Beasts movies coming out? Beyond excited! My local theater will offer a midnight showing and I will definitely be there.
What do you want to do when you graduate? Hogwarts Librarian. I would do an Accio charm on late books so the very moment they are past due, they, along with the tardy party who checked them out! After that happens a couple of times, there would be no more late Library books from anyone! After all, who wants to be snatched in the middle of doing something else, to go flying through the air with late Library books?? If someone brings food into the Library, all the food will turn into flies, and simply fly away! If a witch or wizard starts to write something in one of our Library books, the quill will instead draw a spider, which will become REAL. Presto! No more problems in the Library.
What is your favorite Harry Potter-themed game (i.e. HP Monopoly, HP Trivial Pursuit, etc)? Never played any, but I love trivia, so I'll go with Trivial Pursuit.
There is a petition going around to get the house elves to stop serving pudding for Christmas dinner and instead only serve pie. Would you sign it? Never heard of this, and no, I won't sign it. I want more food, not less, and the freedom to choose. Who is the rogue who created this nonsense?
Saeir Darr Sixth Year
What is your favorite kind of puzzle to solve? I like crosswords the most.
What class are you most looking forward to taking next term? I'm always excited by the ever-changing variety of classes at HOL. My favorite classes are often the traditional Harry Potter classes, mythology classes, and foreign language classes. I used to teach a French class a few years ago!
If you didn’t attend Hogwarts, would you go to Durmstrang, Beauxbatons, or a Muggle school? Beauxbatons for sure, since I speak some French and their lovely ladies seem very classy. But my true passion is for Japanese, so a Japanese wizarding school would be even better.
Which Harry Potter book is your favorite? How did it compare with the movie version? Order of the Phoenix has always been my favorite book. I love that it's the thickest book and I loved the Occlumency lessons. I'd like to recommend a fanfic about Occlumency and Legilimency lessons between Harry and Snape: "Harry Potter and the Enemy Within" by Theowyn and its incredible sequel "Harry Potter and the Chained Souls." Both of these fanfics were written before books 6-7 were released and, frankly, in some ways I liked them a lot better than the actual books!
I generally liked all of the movies, but I try not to compare them to the books because movies will always disappoint one. My favorite movies are probably still the first two as it was very faithful to the books compared with later movies, and the trio were just so young and cute.
Say you ran into someone in a bookstore looking at the Harry Potter books, but they’ve never read them or seen the movies. What would you say to convince them to read the books? To start with, I usually ask them if they like fantasy or not. If you like fantasy, its guaranteed you'll like Harry Potter because they're some of the best fantasy books ever written. If you don't like fantasy, you might still enjoy the books, but you may or may not become a fan of them if fantasy isn't your usual genre of choice. As for books vs movies, I'd ask if they typically prefer movies over books or vice-versa for the stuff they are already a fan of.
How do you feel about the new Fantastic Beasts movies coming out? I'm excited! I'm an avid reader of fanfiction. I have no problem with more content of any kind (canon or fanon) as long as it is well-written.
What do you want to do when you graduate? I'm hoping I can go back to being a professor and teaching classes here at HOL. But RL is keeping me really busy at the moment, hence why I returned to complete my student years. In RL, my Muggle counterpart has already graduated and has been working for a few years now in software engineering.
What is your favorite Harry Potter themed game (i.e. HP Monopoly, HP Trivial Pursuit, etc)? Anything with Harry Potter trivia. Because it's totally unfair lol, because none of my RL friends know Harry Potter like I do. The only time I felt challenged was when I used to play on the Slytherin Quidditch Team many, many years ago. HOL Quidditch teams are TOUGH! It was really hard even with being an extremely fast typist.
There is a petition going around to get the house elves to stop serving pudding for Christmas dinner and instead only serve pie. Would you sign it? Hmm.... what type of pie? I'm partial to cherry or pecan pie. That's much better than pudding. But if its something like cranberry pie, yeah pudding would be the better choice. I don't understand why we can't have both. House elves live to cook.
What is the most difficult class assignment you’ve had to do this term? I'm still doing my homework, I'll let you know lol.