Hufflepuff Head of House
After an immensely successful term as Herbology professor, Professor Paul Myers returned to his second year at Hogwarts with style, now sporting the additional title of Hufflepuff Head of House. We badgers blossomed under his fun approach to leadership as we all grew closer together with lots of house bonding influenced by his contagious charisma. Luckily for us, Professor Myers agreed to sit down with us to answer some of our questions. Let's get to know the beloved man behind the flowers!
1. Hi Professor Myers! Thanks so much for taking the time to answer some of my questions. I know we’re all dying to hear what you’ve got to say! I figure it’s best to start at the very beginning, so let’s start with the start of term feast. I saw you rocking a pretty nice poncho—where do you get your stylistic inspiration? Any fashion tips for budding Hogwarts students?
Well, I really think I get my fashion from what I find comfortable, but also colorful! Ponchos are both! I really prefer hand knit ponchos, too. And people seem to think ponchos are really hot but they can be quite airy when you need them to be in the summer time! I also just think the poncho is so open to all people. It accepts men, women, EVERYONE. There is no stereotype surrounding the poncho! And one size typically fits all, so I like that it includes everyone. Anyone can wear a poncho, you know? As for tips, I think everyone should wear what they want to wear. Wear what you’re comfortable with, wear something that oozes YOU. Yeah, I think that’s it. Ponchos are me, basically.
2. I know I always feel like you were meant for Hogwarts and have been here for ages, but it’s really only been your first term as head of Hufflepuff. How has that transition been for you? I’m sure it’s been great working with two FABULOUS prefects this term.
Hahaha. The transition has been very smooth. I was a Ravenclaw back at Hogwarts, but I have always had a Hufflepuff side. Many of you think I’m a Hufflepuff, so I honestly fit right in, I think. What are house labels, anyways? We can be who we want to be, right? I think I’ve embraced my Hufflepuff side for this reason. As for my prefects, they are quite fabulous, hmm? I couldn’t have asked for better student leaders this year, really.
3. We had a lot of fun with all the activities you planned for us to bond as a house this term. How did you come up with those? For real, sir, you could teach a class on creativity, I bet. Maybe Professor Moxley will let you add that to the Herbology curriculum.
Well usually my ideas just pop in my head? Sometimes they start off pretty dull, actually, and I think to myself…. “What is the most outlandish thing I can do to make this more fun?” and the first idea—I run with it! Creativity is something I’ve always had, I’m proud to say. Maybe I will, hmph! I have some…interesting lessons planned for next term.
4. Lots of weird things went on this term with that awful doll and Peeves’s new lady friend. How did you stay calm in the midst of all that madness?
The doll creeped me out, honestly. But once we found out what exactly was going on, well…I guess it is what it is! Even beings in the afterlife have to be happy, I suppose. I just wish my students wouldn’t have felt so scared. That was my only issue, really. Staying calm when you know you are in charge of lives is actually easier than you’d think. Because you see the people who you’re taking care of, the people who look up to you, and you realize that under no circumstance would you let anything happen to these people, ever. I would give my life for you kids, and I hope you all know that.
Also, if any of you ever need anything from me, ANYTHING, to talk or…anything. Please don’t hesitate to come to me, post graduation or while still at school. I won’t judge you. I was not put in this world to judge you, so I don’t waste my time doing that. I love you all.
5. You get to work with lots of other super cool professors here at Hogwarts. What has that been like for you? Have you gained any wisdom here that you’d like to share with the students? I’m sure we all could benefit from being a little bit more like you.
Okay so…I have gained a lot of wisdom from my coworkers! We all have such different ways of thinking! It’s wonderful. I love how eclectic we all are. Take Professor Draper, for instance. He’s sort of the opposite of me. He’s stiff and reminds me of stone. Ha, he’s not a cuddle bug, that’s for sure! But he’s very smart and cares deeply for his subject matter, and his dog. I think Professor Draper, though, has taught me that sometimes people need more love than they’ll admit. I think we should all love James Draper a little more. Give him a hug! Write him a sappy note, I don’t know! His birthday is in November, I think! We should all bake cakes for him. Deep down, I think he needs us.
1. Hi Professor Myers! Thanks so much for taking the time to answer some of my questions. I know we’re all dying to hear what you’ve got to say! I figure it’s best to start at the very beginning, so let’s start with the start of term feast. I saw you rocking a pretty nice poncho—where do you get your stylistic inspiration? Any fashion tips for budding Hogwarts students?
Well, I really think I get my fashion from what I find comfortable, but also colorful! Ponchos are both! I really prefer hand knit ponchos, too. And people seem to think ponchos are really hot but they can be quite airy when you need them to be in the summer time! I also just think the poncho is so open to all people. It accepts men, women, EVERYONE. There is no stereotype surrounding the poncho! And one size typically fits all, so I like that it includes everyone. Anyone can wear a poncho, you know? As for tips, I think everyone should wear what they want to wear. Wear what you’re comfortable with, wear something that oozes YOU. Yeah, I think that’s it. Ponchos are me, basically.
2. I know I always feel like you were meant for Hogwarts and have been here for ages, but it’s really only been your first term as head of Hufflepuff. How has that transition been for you? I’m sure it’s been great working with two FABULOUS prefects this term.
Hahaha. The transition has been very smooth. I was a Ravenclaw back at Hogwarts, but I have always had a Hufflepuff side. Many of you think I’m a Hufflepuff, so I honestly fit right in, I think. What are house labels, anyways? We can be who we want to be, right? I think I’ve embraced my Hufflepuff side for this reason. As for my prefects, they are quite fabulous, hmm? I couldn’t have asked for better student leaders this year, really.
3. We had a lot of fun with all the activities you planned for us to bond as a house this term. How did you come up with those? For real, sir, you could teach a class on creativity, I bet. Maybe Professor Moxley will let you add that to the Herbology curriculum.
Well usually my ideas just pop in my head? Sometimes they start off pretty dull, actually, and I think to myself…. “What is the most outlandish thing I can do to make this more fun?” and the first idea—I run with it! Creativity is something I’ve always had, I’m proud to say. Maybe I will, hmph! I have some…interesting lessons planned for next term.
4. Lots of weird things went on this term with that awful doll and Peeves’s new lady friend. How did you stay calm in the midst of all that madness?
The doll creeped me out, honestly. But once we found out what exactly was going on, well…I guess it is what it is! Even beings in the afterlife have to be happy, I suppose. I just wish my students wouldn’t have felt so scared. That was my only issue, really. Staying calm when you know you are in charge of lives is actually easier than you’d think. Because you see the people who you’re taking care of, the people who look up to you, and you realize that under no circumstance would you let anything happen to these people, ever. I would give my life for you kids, and I hope you all know that.
Also, if any of you ever need anything from me, ANYTHING, to talk or…anything. Please don’t hesitate to come to me, post graduation or while still at school. I won’t judge you. I was not put in this world to judge you, so I don’t waste my time doing that. I love you all.
5. You get to work with lots of other super cool professors here at Hogwarts. What has that been like for you? Have you gained any wisdom here that you’d like to share with the students? I’m sure we all could benefit from being a little bit more like you.
Okay so…I have gained a lot of wisdom from my coworkers! We all have such different ways of thinking! It’s wonderful. I love how eclectic we all are. Take Professor Draper, for instance. He’s sort of the opposite of me. He’s stiff and reminds me of stone. Ha, he’s not a cuddle bug, that’s for sure! But he’s very smart and cares deeply for his subject matter, and his dog. I think Professor Draper, though, has taught me that sometimes people need more love than they’ll admit. I think we should all love James Draper a little more. Give him a hug! Write him a sappy note, I don’t know! His birthday is in November, I think! We should all bake cakes for him. Deep down, I think he needs us.
Taking care of a house and maintaining a strong presence in the kitchen is no small task but it's certainly rewarding. I suspect if it wasn't, Hufflepuff Prefect Henric Nicolei would have found other ways of spreading his own brand of joy and goodwill to the rest of the castle. If you've got a sweet tooth or any sort of teeth for that matter, just hit him up and he'll take care of the rest. With how busy he can end up, it's lucky we got to have a sit down with him before he darted off again. Here's what he had to say:
1. Thanks for taking the time to sit down with me when you could be in the kitchen making yourself pie Mr. Prefect Nicolei Sir. I think that’s what my first question will be something to do with. I heard you make pies, what kind’s your favourite? |
Call me Henric, don’t be so formal with me, Blaise. Yes, I baked pies and all kinds of desserts. My favourite kind is definitely pumpkin pie, they are the best when they are freshly baked from the ovens. I recommend eating them with ice cream, yup.
2. Do you know how to do make anything else?
Yes, of course. Have you tried chicken rice before? Or Spaghetti aglio-e-olio pasta? I could make some french dishes too. My dad’s a chef so he taught me a lot of basic-style cooking.
3. You know, Helga Hufflepuff used to spend all her time in the kitchen making stuff for her students, do you do that too?? You know…as Hufflepuff Prefect and all. Can I have some next time if you do?
Helga Hufflepuff was one of the greatest witches of her time. I’ve always admired her work and what she had done for the students in Hogwarts. And...yes I do sometimes... whenever I’m free from prefect duties or studies. I would bake cupcakes, muffins, chocolate chip cookies or more for my friends and fellow schoolmates. Definitely my man, anything you want! Come over to the kitchens and I’ll teach you how to bake your very own customized brownie in a cup!
4. Were you scared when that Hag tried eating everyone?
Not at all, but.. we were all immobilized and in a state of confusion? The rest seemed like a blur to me...I don’t remember after that. I always knew the Hag had motives for coming to this school. I trust Headmistress Moxley and sure... I’m all down with being fair to all magical beings and such…but having the Hag teach Divination to a room full of kids...ermm...not a good idea after all.
5. A friend of yours told me that you’re whipped. I dunno what that is but it sounds painful. How come he said that?
A friend of mine? Hardly. Pay no mind to that ‘friend’ of mine, Blaise .Umm no... I don’t think he meant it like that at all. He just has a misguided view about my relationship with my girlfriend. All you need to know is that I’m happy. Are you going to put this in the article?
6. What d'you think is the hardest part of being a Prefect?
The hardest part of being a Prefect is not being able to fulfill my duties as much as I would like to. I think I’m somewhat lacking in that department and I wish I could have done more for the school.
7. What d'you enjoy most about being a Prefect?
You get free access to the Prefect’s bathroom? Haha...that and the opportunity to organise events. It’s been really fun and great so far.
8. What’s it like working with Norah?? Isn’t she the most amazing and wonderful human being you’ve ever met??
Yes, she is and more. Working with Norah has been fantastic.I couldn’t ask for a more better co-prefect partner than her. She’s incredibly sweet and kind too, a true brilliant friend to have as well and I’m grateful for everything she’s done for Hufflepuff house. You can always count on her to lend you a helping hand.
9. Did you ever get spooked by the rumour of some walking doll?
I have to admit….a little. While I was patrolling down the hallway some time back, I did hear strange giggling sounds out of nowhere. I thought it was probably Miffy playing a prank on us prefects but...I’m not sure...
10. Got any great plans for the summer?
Hmm...let’s see...I’ll be spending my time with my family and friends again, either to the amusement park or a day at the beach. Probably go motocrossing with my dad for the weekend. Sometimes we go bike riding out in the woods and camp outdoors too. Apart from that? I’ll be helping out in my family’s small-town restaurant, filling in as assistant pastry chef or wait tables all day. Yup, pretty much it.
2. Do you know how to do make anything else?
Yes, of course. Have you tried chicken rice before? Or Spaghetti aglio-e-olio pasta? I could make some french dishes too. My dad’s a chef so he taught me a lot of basic-style cooking.
3. You know, Helga Hufflepuff used to spend all her time in the kitchen making stuff for her students, do you do that too?? You know…as Hufflepuff Prefect and all. Can I have some next time if you do?
Helga Hufflepuff was one of the greatest witches of her time. I’ve always admired her work and what she had done for the students in Hogwarts. And...yes I do sometimes... whenever I’m free from prefect duties or studies. I would bake cupcakes, muffins, chocolate chip cookies or more for my friends and fellow schoolmates. Definitely my man, anything you want! Come over to the kitchens and I’ll teach you how to bake your very own customized brownie in a cup!
4. Were you scared when that Hag tried eating everyone?
Not at all, but.. we were all immobilized and in a state of confusion? The rest seemed like a blur to me...I don’t remember after that. I always knew the Hag had motives for coming to this school. I trust Headmistress Moxley and sure... I’m all down with being fair to all magical beings and such…but having the Hag teach Divination to a room full of kids...ermm...not a good idea after all.
5. A friend of yours told me that you’re whipped. I dunno what that is but it sounds painful. How come he said that?
A friend of mine? Hardly. Pay no mind to that ‘friend’ of mine, Blaise .Umm no... I don’t think he meant it like that at all. He just has a misguided view about my relationship with my girlfriend. All you need to know is that I’m happy. Are you going to put this in the article?
6. What d'you think is the hardest part of being a Prefect?
The hardest part of being a Prefect is not being able to fulfill my duties as much as I would like to. I think I’m somewhat lacking in that department and I wish I could have done more for the school.
7. What d'you enjoy most about being a Prefect?
You get free access to the Prefect’s bathroom? Haha...that and the opportunity to organise events. It’s been really fun and great so far.
8. What’s it like working with Norah?? Isn’t she the most amazing and wonderful human being you’ve ever met??
Yes, she is and more. Working with Norah has been fantastic.I couldn’t ask for a more better co-prefect partner than her. She’s incredibly sweet and kind too, a true brilliant friend to have as well and I’m grateful for everything she’s done for Hufflepuff house. You can always count on her to lend you a helping hand.
9. Did you ever get spooked by the rumour of some walking doll?
I have to admit….a little. While I was patrolling down the hallway some time back, I did hear strange giggling sounds out of nowhere. I thought it was probably Miffy playing a prank on us prefects but...I’m not sure...
10. Got any great plans for the summer?
Hmm...let’s see...I’ll be spending my time with my family and friends again, either to the amusement park or a day at the beach. Probably go motocrossing with my dad for the weekend. Sometimes we go bike riding out in the woods and camp outdoors too. Apart from that? I’ll be helping out in my family’s small-town restaurant, filling in as assistant pastry chef or wait tables all day. Yup, pretty much it.
You haven't met a nice person until you've sat down and had a conversation with none other than Hufflepuff's Norah Kittredge. One of a kind and arguably the most brilliant person in existence, Norah also has a heart of gold that touches those even outside her own house. It's a wonder that she could find the time in her busy schedule of good deeds, but I was able to have a sit down interview with her--which was the best thing ever--and you'll be interested in what she had to say.
1. I‘m really glad I got to be the one to interview you Norah! It’s a complete honour! The bestest thing ever! I think my first question is, do you know you're super pretty???? The honor is all mine! No doubt about it. Y'know Blaise, I can't say I did know that. Probably 'cause it isn't true, but did YOU know you're very sweet? That's definitely a fact. |
2. I’ve seen a lot of girls walking around Hogwarts but I think you’ve got the nicest hair by far. It looks soft. Is it? Can I touch it sometimes?
Are ALL Gryffindors this nice? You're a pro at this compliment thing. Really, you could teach lessons. I'd attend those for sure. I think spending ages brushing my hair is a ginormous waste of my time, but when I do pay attention I guess it does get pretty soft. And it smells like strawberries! Not that that was the question or anything. Anyways. I dunno why you'd want to touch it but I'm sure that'd be okay. As long as you ask first, 'cause it isn't nice to touch people without asking. That's a good life rule.
3. Do you usually offer chocolate frogs to Second Years that start food fights?
Y'know, you may just be special in that particular situation. But I do think it's good to stay calm and eat some chocolate whenever things get too out of hand. That's why I always have a chocolate frog or two on hand. Yelling and getting mad isn't just really unpleasant, I also don't think it works all the time. Plus you never know when chaos will happen--or when you'll get hungry, which is probably the most chaotic situation of them all.
4. There’s this walking stereotype that Hufflepuffs are like…really overly and excessively nice. Would you agree?—because I think you’re nice, the nicest person I know.
Even though it doesn't always work, I try my very best not to think in stereotypes 'cause sometimes they can hurt people. Everybody and their grandmother knows that I'm kind of weird but I don't mind it much anymore 'cause I don't try to fit in a box, y'know? So I don't think I'm nice just because I'm a Hufflepuff, I think I'm nice because I want to be nice. How you act is always a choice, no matter what the sorting hat tells you. Don't tell it I said that though, I think it likes to feel importanter than it actually is. You're not a Hufflepuff and YOU'RE nice, right? Right.
5. Let’s say…hypothetically…a Second Year Gryffindor that always walked around with a quick quotes quill just…happened to ask you on a chocolate frogs and jelly slugs date, what would your reply be?—Hypothetically of course!
Veeeery subtle, Blaise. I have no idea who you could possibly be talking about! I'm not very well versed on the rules of dating somebody, but since I already am I'm pretty sure it's part of the rules that I don't go on a date with somebody else. Don't quote me on that, but last time I checked that was how it worked. Chocolate frogs and jelly slugs sound lovely, though. It doesn't have to be a date for me 'n this mysterious second year Gryffindor with a quick quotes quill to have fun and eat candy together. If I can ever find him, that is. You were very vague.
6. What’d you like most about being a Prefect?
A lot of the time I don't think I'm very good at it, but I like that I have the opportunity to be in charge of some things the way I want to be in charge of them. I don't think it works to discipline people by shouting and being mean, so I don't do that. And I think that can be a good influence on students sometimes, if somebody with a fancy pants badge decides to be nice instead of mean. There are loads of situations where I don't think I'm the best role model ever, but I'm not too awful at having a good attitude. Wait! I change my answer. The bathroom. Definitely the bathroom.
7. What do you like most about being in Hufflepuff?
Oooooh, I like this question! There are so many things I love so it's hard to pick, but if I really had to I think I'd choose the people. And the common room. And our heads of house. Three is okay, right? Three is going to be okay. I think all the houses are lovely but I'd never want to be anything besides a Hufflepuff.
8. Heard there was a creepy doll walking around the place. Did’ja get to see it? It didn’t hurt you, did it??
I heard about that too and it SOUNDED awfully scary, but I didn't get to see it, which I'm kind of glad about even though I was curious. I'm not very good at dealing with scary. What's the point when you could think about happy things instead?
9. With Yoongi leaving, d’you think you’ll need a Gryffindor temporary replacement?—‘Cause, I mean, my schedule’s busy but I’d so fit you in. Promise.
I don't reeeeeaaally think it works like that. There's no such thing as a replacement for somebody you like a whole lot. At least I don't think there is. You've gotta like everybody for specific reasons, y'know? If you'd like to spend time together as Blaise and NOT a Yoongi replacement, I'd be delighted. I'll bring the chocolate.
10. Exciting plans for the summer?
My mum's parents live in France and that's where I was born so we go there every summer. They're muggles, though, so even though I'm of age now I can't use magic which is kinda sad but it'll be a good time. I spend a ton of time with my little brothers there, so that's always nice. Other than that I may start to study for my NEWTs but I make no promises. Once the summer holidays roll around it gets awfully easy to pretend you don't have to study, but that didn't make for a very good year when I had OWLs, so maybe I've learned my lesson. I guess we'll just have to wait and see!
Are ALL Gryffindors this nice? You're a pro at this compliment thing. Really, you could teach lessons. I'd attend those for sure. I think spending ages brushing my hair is a ginormous waste of my time, but when I do pay attention I guess it does get pretty soft. And it smells like strawberries! Not that that was the question or anything. Anyways. I dunno why you'd want to touch it but I'm sure that'd be okay. As long as you ask first, 'cause it isn't nice to touch people without asking. That's a good life rule.
3. Do you usually offer chocolate frogs to Second Years that start food fights?
Y'know, you may just be special in that particular situation. But I do think it's good to stay calm and eat some chocolate whenever things get too out of hand. That's why I always have a chocolate frog or two on hand. Yelling and getting mad isn't just really unpleasant, I also don't think it works all the time. Plus you never know when chaos will happen--or when you'll get hungry, which is probably the most chaotic situation of them all.
4. There’s this walking stereotype that Hufflepuffs are like…really overly and excessively nice. Would you agree?—because I think you’re nice, the nicest person I know.
Even though it doesn't always work, I try my very best not to think in stereotypes 'cause sometimes they can hurt people. Everybody and their grandmother knows that I'm kind of weird but I don't mind it much anymore 'cause I don't try to fit in a box, y'know? So I don't think I'm nice just because I'm a Hufflepuff, I think I'm nice because I want to be nice. How you act is always a choice, no matter what the sorting hat tells you. Don't tell it I said that though, I think it likes to feel importanter than it actually is. You're not a Hufflepuff and YOU'RE nice, right? Right.
5. Let’s say…hypothetically…a Second Year Gryffindor that always walked around with a quick quotes quill just…happened to ask you on a chocolate frogs and jelly slugs date, what would your reply be?—Hypothetically of course!
Veeeery subtle, Blaise. I have no idea who you could possibly be talking about! I'm not very well versed on the rules of dating somebody, but since I already am I'm pretty sure it's part of the rules that I don't go on a date with somebody else. Don't quote me on that, but last time I checked that was how it worked. Chocolate frogs and jelly slugs sound lovely, though. It doesn't have to be a date for me 'n this mysterious second year Gryffindor with a quick quotes quill to have fun and eat candy together. If I can ever find him, that is. You were very vague.
6. What’d you like most about being a Prefect?
A lot of the time I don't think I'm very good at it, but I like that I have the opportunity to be in charge of some things the way I want to be in charge of them. I don't think it works to discipline people by shouting and being mean, so I don't do that. And I think that can be a good influence on students sometimes, if somebody with a fancy pants badge decides to be nice instead of mean. There are loads of situations where I don't think I'm the best role model ever, but I'm not too awful at having a good attitude. Wait! I change my answer. The bathroom. Definitely the bathroom.
7. What do you like most about being in Hufflepuff?
Oooooh, I like this question! There are so many things I love so it's hard to pick, but if I really had to I think I'd choose the people. And the common room. And our heads of house. Three is okay, right? Three is going to be okay. I think all the houses are lovely but I'd never want to be anything besides a Hufflepuff.
8. Heard there was a creepy doll walking around the place. Did’ja get to see it? It didn’t hurt you, did it??
I heard about that too and it SOUNDED awfully scary, but I didn't get to see it, which I'm kind of glad about even though I was curious. I'm not very good at dealing with scary. What's the point when you could think about happy things instead?
9. With Yoongi leaving, d’you think you’ll need a Gryffindor temporary replacement?—‘Cause, I mean, my schedule’s busy but I’d so fit you in. Promise.
I don't reeeeeaaally think it works like that. There's no such thing as a replacement for somebody you like a whole lot. At least I don't think there is. You've gotta like everybody for specific reasons, y'know? If you'd like to spend time together as Blaise and NOT a Yoongi replacement, I'd be delighted. I'll bring the chocolate.
10. Exciting plans for the summer?
My mum's parents live in France and that's where I was born so we go there every summer. They're muggles, though, so even though I'm of age now I can't use magic which is kinda sad but it'll be a good time. I spend a ton of time with my little brothers there, so that's always nice. Other than that I may start to study for my NEWTs but I make no promises. Once the summer holidays roll around it gets awfully easy to pretend you don't have to study, but that didn't make for a very good year when I had OWLs, so maybe I've learned my lesson. I guess we'll just have to wait and see!