hufflepuff head of house
With plants on the brain, ponchos adorning his person, and a whole bunch of personality, Paul Meyers returned to Hogwarts to lead the fiesty but adorable badger bunch. It was no easy task, what with the poltergeists, portal, and monster, oh my! Luckily, Professor Myers has a good head on his shoulders and a big heart to guide him. We sat down with the Herbology fan and Hufflepuff Head to learn just a little more about him.
1. This term proved extra scary for a lot of Hogwartians, Professor. How do you manage to keep calm and lead-on in such chaotic situations?
I certainly did not. Not in private, not when alone. In front of students...well, when you become a teacher, professor, or anyone who deals with a leadership position, when dangerous things happen, it just sort of happens. You know you've got to be calm or else your students won't feel as safe...and even if they don't feel safe, seeing you being calm is a heck of a lot better than seeing you freak out. It is okay to be afraid...it's what you do when afraid that matters.
2. In a life or death situation, do you rely more on your head or your heart?
I think it's a mixture of both. Because if you rely too much on your heart, you can do the wrong thing. And if you rely on your head too much, you can end up doing something insensitive without thinking about the people affected. So you need a mixture of both. There are things I would change about this term, definitely. I need to reassess my head vs. heart in situations like the one we faced this term. I plan on taking the summer to reflect and better myself on the matter.
3. This one is a two-parter, Sir, and a bit more lighthearted. What’s your most embarrassing in-school memory? Did you learn anything from it?
Most embarrassing? Pfft, Miss Botros. I'm not sure I want to pend it to you for all to see!
It has to be back when I came here as a student. I believe I was showing off for a boy... in potions class. I was a real pompous butt back then, you know. Straight O student, Ravenclaw. I thought I was pretty darn cool if I DO say so myself. I was in potions trying to make some draught or another, I can't remember what exactly. I KNOW I had the class with none other than Miss Hecate Lafay... and I only remember that because her reaction was probably astoundingly unamused with the whole thing. I looked over at whatever boy it was (because I can't even remember who it WAS now) and since I was trying to look all COOL I added the wrong ingredient...and....
I ended up exploding the potion. It....well, it not only took all my hair on my head, eyebrows...EYELASHES FOR MERLIN'S SAKE off...but everyone around me. Including said boy.
And he never spoke to me again. Our hair grew back FINE it was no big deal! But I guess some people are just touchy about that stuff. Nonetheless, I was extremely mortified, I tell you, MORTIFIED. At the time. Now I laugh. Ha!
4. You're a plant lover, yeah? Well, if you could take your Herbology students on a field trip to anywhere in the world, where would you take them?
There's an enormous all hydroponic greenhouse in Japan I'd love to take my students to. Maybe one day it will come to fruition! Who knows. The way perfectly normal and magical plants are rendered above the ground...it's incredible to see.
5. Last but not least, if you were trapped on a deserted island, what three items would you want with you?
Number one, I'd want ...well, you said items. I wanted to say my husband, but you said items so...well, I guess I'd like to bring a magic carpet in order to better transport myself around the place. I assume I can't say my wand, since I am stranded on the island, and the only way I'd ever be stranded anywhere was if I didn't have my wand with me. Number two, then, would be the collected works of a highly known muggle author named Lewis Carrol, because his work would make me feel like my insanity was validated. Island Madness, ya' dig? And thirdly...something practice, Paul, come on. Um. Some sort of shrubbery than can produce foot. A Tibetan Turnup or something. Yeah. That sounds.....*laughs* that sounds awful. But whatever, those are my THREEEE items!
1. This term proved extra scary for a lot of Hogwartians, Professor. How do you manage to keep calm and lead-on in such chaotic situations?
I certainly did not. Not in private, not when alone. In front of students...well, when you become a teacher, professor, or anyone who deals with a leadership position, when dangerous things happen, it just sort of happens. You know you've got to be calm or else your students won't feel as safe...and even if they don't feel safe, seeing you being calm is a heck of a lot better than seeing you freak out. It is okay to be afraid...it's what you do when afraid that matters.
2. In a life or death situation, do you rely more on your head or your heart?
I think it's a mixture of both. Because if you rely too much on your heart, you can do the wrong thing. And if you rely on your head too much, you can end up doing something insensitive without thinking about the people affected. So you need a mixture of both. There are things I would change about this term, definitely. I need to reassess my head vs. heart in situations like the one we faced this term. I plan on taking the summer to reflect and better myself on the matter.
3. This one is a two-parter, Sir, and a bit more lighthearted. What’s your most embarrassing in-school memory? Did you learn anything from it?
Most embarrassing? Pfft, Miss Botros. I'm not sure I want to pend it to you for all to see!
It has to be back when I came here as a student. I believe I was showing off for a boy... in potions class. I was a real pompous butt back then, you know. Straight O student, Ravenclaw. I thought I was pretty darn cool if I DO say so myself. I was in potions trying to make some draught or another, I can't remember what exactly. I KNOW I had the class with none other than Miss Hecate Lafay... and I only remember that because her reaction was probably astoundingly unamused with the whole thing. I looked over at whatever boy it was (because I can't even remember who it WAS now) and since I was trying to look all COOL I added the wrong ingredient...and....
I ended up exploding the potion. It....well, it not only took all my hair on my head, eyebrows...EYELASHES FOR MERLIN'S SAKE off...but everyone around me. Including said boy.
And he never spoke to me again. Our hair grew back FINE it was no big deal! But I guess some people are just touchy about that stuff. Nonetheless, I was extremely mortified, I tell you, MORTIFIED. At the time. Now I laugh. Ha!
4. You're a plant lover, yeah? Well, if you could take your Herbology students on a field trip to anywhere in the world, where would you take them?
There's an enormous all hydroponic greenhouse in Japan I'd love to take my students to. Maybe one day it will come to fruition! Who knows. The way perfectly normal and magical plants are rendered above the ground...it's incredible to see.
5. Last but not least, if you were trapped on a deserted island, what three items would you want with you?
Number one, I'd want ...well, you said items. I wanted to say my husband, but you said items so...well, I guess I'd like to bring a magic carpet in order to better transport myself around the place. I assume I can't say my wand, since I am stranded on the island, and the only way I'd ever be stranded anywhere was if I didn't have my wand with me. Number two, then, would be the collected works of a highly known muggle author named Lewis Carrol, because his work would make me feel like my insanity was validated. Island Madness, ya' dig? And thirdly...something practice, Paul, come on. Um. Some sort of shrubbery than can produce foot. A Tibetan Turnup or something. Yeah. That sounds.....*laughs* that sounds awful. But whatever, those are my THREEEE items!
hufflepuff prefects
It's a lovely sunny afternoon and my search for the seventh year Hufflepuff Prefect has brought me to the greenhouses.. Word has it that the musician could be found here, either napping, awake and tending to the greenery, or playing his Cello to the poor sick plants because doesn't everything need love? Thankfully I caught up to him while he was still awake and managed to snag a few of his precious minutes for a quick interview.
1.) Hello Brian! Thanks so much for giving me some of your time.. shall we start then? How do you feel this year went for you?
I feel like it went by entirely too quickly, and that I barely had a minute to myself between revision and prefect duties, it's been crazy, but truthfully, I'm glad it's over.
2.) There was a lot put on the Prefects this year, do you think you lived up to the challenge?
I like to think I did, because I really did give it all I could afford to - with NEWTs and my university entrance exams coming up. Can't put prefect duties above my revision, but I couldn't prioritise my revision over other people's lives. It was a hard balance to strike.
3.) What Hufflepuff quality do you feel you yourself possess the most?
Hard work, definitely. I'm loyal to a fault like all other badgers, but I think that working hard is arguably the most important house trait we have. You can't get anywhere without it, even raw talent or intelligence is meaningless if you don't put the work in.
4.) What's it like working with Professor Myers?
I started out thinking he was potentially senile. Then I found out he isn't that old. Now I think he's just crazy.
That being said, though, when I handed him my badge after my first day of pretecting, which I thought went absolutely terribly, he gave it right back and gave me the longest pep talk of my life. I owe him a lot for this opportunity.
5.) How do you feel about your fellow Prefect?
Juno? She's an alright bird - good conversation on rounds. I definitely have warmed up to her a lot this year, though I think our interests are too different for us to have been closer than we are.
6.) What are your plans for after school?
I've sent my target university confirmation that I'll be studying there come September, so until then, I'll be reading and tutoring near my home.
7.) How do you think being a Prefect will help you out on your journey after Hogwarts?
Well, it's taught me to deal with people I don't want to deal with, which is definitely important. I suppose leadership skills help, and it has made me relate better to people. I dunno, honestly, how it benefits me isn't what I think of when I'm on duty. It's how other people benefit from the time I'm giving up.
8.) What is your favorite memory from Hogwarts?
I distinctly remember one time I walked into Astronomy very, very late. I was about fifteen minutes late, because I forgot we had class in the first place. Got there, crashed onto the floor, claimed it was a demonstration of gravity. I... lost ten points on the spot, but it's not something I'm likely to forget.
Don't worry, I earned the points back eventually.
9.) Do you have any advice for Future Hufflepuff Prefects?
Don't take yourself or your position too seriously. It's just a badge, it's just a few additional duties. But remember to make time for yourself. Don't overload yourself with too many patrols - you have subjects to study for, and your additional duties shouldn't get in the way of your education.
10.) and last of all, What's your favorite subject?
Astronomy. For sure. I intend to study astrophysics at university, and I interned at the UK Space Agency over the summer. Professors Flamsteed and Burbage are absolutely inspirational, and I'm lucky to have learned under them.
1.) Hello Brian! Thanks so much for giving me some of your time.. shall we start then? How do you feel this year went for you?
I feel like it went by entirely too quickly, and that I barely had a minute to myself between revision and prefect duties, it's been crazy, but truthfully, I'm glad it's over.
2.) There was a lot put on the Prefects this year, do you think you lived up to the challenge?
I like to think I did, because I really did give it all I could afford to - with NEWTs and my university entrance exams coming up. Can't put prefect duties above my revision, but I couldn't prioritise my revision over other people's lives. It was a hard balance to strike.
3.) What Hufflepuff quality do you feel you yourself possess the most?
Hard work, definitely. I'm loyal to a fault like all other badgers, but I think that working hard is arguably the most important house trait we have. You can't get anywhere without it, even raw talent or intelligence is meaningless if you don't put the work in.
4.) What's it like working with Professor Myers?
I started out thinking he was potentially senile. Then I found out he isn't that old. Now I think he's just crazy.
That being said, though, when I handed him my badge after my first day of pretecting, which I thought went absolutely terribly, he gave it right back and gave me the longest pep talk of my life. I owe him a lot for this opportunity.
5.) How do you feel about your fellow Prefect?
Juno? She's an alright bird - good conversation on rounds. I definitely have warmed up to her a lot this year, though I think our interests are too different for us to have been closer than we are.
6.) What are your plans for after school?
I've sent my target university confirmation that I'll be studying there come September, so until then, I'll be reading and tutoring near my home.
7.) How do you think being a Prefect will help you out on your journey after Hogwarts?
Well, it's taught me to deal with people I don't want to deal with, which is definitely important. I suppose leadership skills help, and it has made me relate better to people. I dunno, honestly, how it benefits me isn't what I think of when I'm on duty. It's how other people benefit from the time I'm giving up.
8.) What is your favorite memory from Hogwarts?
I distinctly remember one time I walked into Astronomy very, very late. I was about fifteen minutes late, because I forgot we had class in the first place. Got there, crashed onto the floor, claimed it was a demonstration of gravity. I... lost ten points on the spot, but it's not something I'm likely to forget.
Don't worry, I earned the points back eventually.
9.) Do you have any advice for Future Hufflepuff Prefects?
Don't take yourself or your position too seriously. It's just a badge, it's just a few additional duties. But remember to make time for yourself. Don't overload yourself with too many patrols - you have subjects to study for, and your additional duties shouldn't get in the way of your education.
10.) and last of all, What's your favorite subject?
Astronomy. For sure. I intend to study astrophysics at university, and I interned at the UK Space Agency over the summer. Professors Flamsteed and Burbage are absolutely inspirational, and I'm lucky to have learned under them.
The Sixth Year Hufflepuff Prefect might cause you to do a double take when you see her. Especially if she is with her identical twin, but even with a mirror image, Juno Star Darcy is quite the individual. She loves leather Jackets, boots, the color purple, combat and has aspirations to become an Auror. Not to mention she's been spotted around the castle lately with a certain older Ravenclaw. I sat down with this busy Prefect (and possible future sister in law) to get the scoop on her life, loves and what it's really like to work with Professor Meyers.
1.) Hello Juno! thank you so much for meeting with me and taking time away from your busy schedule to answer some questions, let's dive right in shall we? How do you feel this year went for you?
I would say pretty good despite the crazy portal and murderous monster. Had a lot of juggling to do between classes, homework, my regular patrol, patrolling the Portal, and walking students....well, everywhere. But yeah, pretty good!
2.) There was a lot put on the Prefects this year, do you think you lived up to the challenge?
Honestly, I don't know. I really hope I did. There was definitely a lot of responsibility put on our shoulders this year. Especially when the 3 boys, including Rooney the male Ravenclaw prefect, got taken into the portal for 5 days. It was really scary and hard for all of us. But I think all the prefects and Head boy and Girl did their best to help out the professors and keep the students safe. That is our number one priority; making sure everyone is safe.
3.) What Hufflepuff quality do you feel you yourself possess the most?
Oh gosh, um, probably loyalty. It is hard to gain my trust, but once I feel like I can, or you have proven to me in some way that I can trust you, I will be loyal to you until you break that trust. I am actually a pretty shy person, so I don't really put myself out there a lot because I am scared I am going to get hurt. So if I am trying to reach out to you, it's because I think you might be a trustworthy and worthwhile friend, and I will be the same.
4.) What's it like working with Professor Myers?
Oh my gosh it's so much fun! Professor Myers is amazing! He is such a fun, kindhearted man and loves his students so much. He is the best head of House.He even had a pool party for all of the Puffs at his house over the summer. PLUS,he is an awesome teacher. His lessons are always so interesting and engaging. I am so glad to have him as a Professor and to be able to work closely with him.
5.) How do you feel about your fellow Prefect?
Brian is great. He is so diligent with patrolling and making sure students are doing what they should be doing. Though...he knows how to have fun sometimes too. He is overall a great guy.
6.) A little birdie told us love was in the air for you this year? Care to elaborate?
Uh, wellllll....Leon Kennedy, seventh year Ravenclaw, and I started dating in January, but the flirtation started at the beginning of the year. He is super sweet, kind, intelligent, gorgeous, and well...just perfect in general. He and I have a lot in common and we just...yeah... I care about him a lot, and hope to be with him for a long time.
7.) Are you looking forward to your next year here?
Yes and no. I mean it will be my last year and Leon will have graduated, so that will be very difficult to deal with. But I also want my last year to be my best year. I want to make memories and make more friends. I want next year to be a happy year, despite it being the end of my education and time here. This school is Home in so many ways. It will be bittersweet to leave it.
8.) What was your favorite experience this year?
Gosh that is a really hard question to answer. I mean, of course my favorite moment is going to be when Leon asked me to be his girlfriend. But outside of the relationship category, I would have to say Professor Myers' field trip to his Vineyard in Tuscany. It was right after the three boys had been taken...we really needed that break to feel like normal kids for a couple hours. Though I know some students will disagree with me, but as a prefect and taking care of my responsibilities, it was a well needed break.
9.) What are your plans for after Hogwarts?
Apply for the YATI program and become an Auror like my father. It has been my plan since....gosh I can't remember when. I want to protect my fellow witches and wizards from the bad witches and wizards out there. I have also thought about starting a self defense class for witches and wizards because, what happens if you and your opponent lose your wands or your attacked by a muggle? Obviously, we are not allowed to use magic around them, so it is better to be prepared and trained than be harmed or forced to use your wand in front of a muggle.
10.) And finally,, last but not least.. What is your favorite article of clothing?
Ugh...your making me choose? okay, okay hmm, I would have to say my black leather jacket. It goes with everything, and I just love leather. Plus it makes me look super tough. Well, at least I hope it does. I also have a ridiculously huge collection or boots. All types of boots in all types of colors. My collection ranges from combat boots to Christian Louboutin booties. You name it I probably have it.
1.) Hello Juno! thank you so much for meeting with me and taking time away from your busy schedule to answer some questions, let's dive right in shall we? How do you feel this year went for you?
I would say pretty good despite the crazy portal and murderous monster. Had a lot of juggling to do between classes, homework, my regular patrol, patrolling the Portal, and walking students....well, everywhere. But yeah, pretty good!
2.) There was a lot put on the Prefects this year, do you think you lived up to the challenge?
Honestly, I don't know. I really hope I did. There was definitely a lot of responsibility put on our shoulders this year. Especially when the 3 boys, including Rooney the male Ravenclaw prefect, got taken into the portal for 5 days. It was really scary and hard for all of us. But I think all the prefects and Head boy and Girl did their best to help out the professors and keep the students safe. That is our number one priority; making sure everyone is safe.
3.) What Hufflepuff quality do you feel you yourself possess the most?
Oh gosh, um, probably loyalty. It is hard to gain my trust, but once I feel like I can, or you have proven to me in some way that I can trust you, I will be loyal to you until you break that trust. I am actually a pretty shy person, so I don't really put myself out there a lot because I am scared I am going to get hurt. So if I am trying to reach out to you, it's because I think you might be a trustworthy and worthwhile friend, and I will be the same.
4.) What's it like working with Professor Myers?
Oh my gosh it's so much fun! Professor Myers is amazing! He is such a fun, kindhearted man and loves his students so much. He is the best head of House.He even had a pool party for all of the Puffs at his house over the summer. PLUS,he is an awesome teacher. His lessons are always so interesting and engaging. I am so glad to have him as a Professor and to be able to work closely with him.
5.) How do you feel about your fellow Prefect?
Brian is great. He is so diligent with patrolling and making sure students are doing what they should be doing. Though...he knows how to have fun sometimes too. He is overall a great guy.
6.) A little birdie told us love was in the air for you this year? Care to elaborate?
Uh, wellllll....Leon Kennedy, seventh year Ravenclaw, and I started dating in January, but the flirtation started at the beginning of the year. He is super sweet, kind, intelligent, gorgeous, and well...just perfect in general. He and I have a lot in common and we just...yeah... I care about him a lot, and hope to be with him for a long time.
7.) Are you looking forward to your next year here?
Yes and no. I mean it will be my last year and Leon will have graduated, so that will be very difficult to deal with. But I also want my last year to be my best year. I want to make memories and make more friends. I want next year to be a happy year, despite it being the end of my education and time here. This school is Home in so many ways. It will be bittersweet to leave it.
8.) What was your favorite experience this year?
Gosh that is a really hard question to answer. I mean, of course my favorite moment is going to be when Leon asked me to be his girlfriend. But outside of the relationship category, I would have to say Professor Myers' field trip to his Vineyard in Tuscany. It was right after the three boys had been taken...we really needed that break to feel like normal kids for a couple hours. Though I know some students will disagree with me, but as a prefect and taking care of my responsibilities, it was a well needed break.
9.) What are your plans for after Hogwarts?
Apply for the YATI program and become an Auror like my father. It has been my plan since....gosh I can't remember when. I want to protect my fellow witches and wizards from the bad witches and wizards out there. I have also thought about starting a self defense class for witches and wizards because, what happens if you and your opponent lose your wands or your attacked by a muggle? Obviously, we are not allowed to use magic around them, so it is better to be prepared and trained than be harmed or forced to use your wand in front of a muggle.
10.) And finally,, last but not least.. What is your favorite article of clothing?
Ugh...your making me choose? okay, okay hmm, I would have to say my black leather jacket. It goes with everything, and I just love leather. Plus it makes me look super tough. Well, at least I hope it does. I also have a ridiculously huge collection or boots. All types of boots in all types of colors. My collection ranges from combat boots to Christian Louboutin booties. You name it I probably have it.