ravenclaw head of house
Even the most astute and thought to be the most organized and responsible among the student population need some steady guidance and someone to remind them that the rest of the castle population are not simply one big science experiment. The 'Claws have it real lucky getting Professor Hirsch as a continued Head of House. He's the right mix of 'knows what's going on' and 'let me not try to find out', honestly a rather desired trait a few students might agree to be lacking among others. So what does this chill but competent Professor have to say about rearing a bunch that practically rears themselves? We got an interview with him to find out:
1. You're a pretty cool Professor, any secret to remaining so chill until you finally draw for that dead serious, if looks could kill, all nonsense ends expression?
Well, first of all, thank you, Blaise. I've always been pretty chill. Having a hot head affects how you think if you're up against something stressful or dangerous, like the Dark Arts, and you end up doing something you might not have done otherwise. Some people turn to yoga to help them relax but I turn to exercise and boxing. I think you just have to find whatever helps you to relax and stick to it.
Very..... interesting question, by the way.
2. Were you worried some of your Ravenclaws would be curious enough to poke around the portal after the warnings went out?
I was, yes, but I'm always going to be worried about anything happening to them. And I knew they'd be smart enough to seek help if the situation calls for it which is something that Rooney did.
3. If you had the choice all over again, what house would you rather be the Head of House for?
Another house? That's not Ravenclaw? That's a tough one. I've had some people mention that Gryffindor would've suited my line of work more so, if I had to choose, probably Gryffindor. I work with quite a few Gryffindors as well on extra defensive lessons and other interests linked to my subject so I think I could see that working.
4. Heard rumours of top secret experiments happening up in 'Claw tower that might have something to do with a few twitching Gryffindors. Any comments on that?
What happens in Ravenclaw Tower stays in Ravenclaw Tower. Sorry, Blaise, but you're not finding out anything top secret from me.
5. After a term this hectic, how will you unwind for the summer?
A break is just what we need, I bet. Healer Reed and I are going on a short holiday to celebrate the end of the school year. Nothing fancy but very relaxing, all the same.
1. You're a pretty cool Professor, any secret to remaining so chill until you finally draw for that dead serious, if looks could kill, all nonsense ends expression?
Well, first of all, thank you, Blaise. I've always been pretty chill. Having a hot head affects how you think if you're up against something stressful or dangerous, like the Dark Arts, and you end up doing something you might not have done otherwise. Some people turn to yoga to help them relax but I turn to exercise and boxing. I think you just have to find whatever helps you to relax and stick to it.
Very..... interesting question, by the way.
2. Were you worried some of your Ravenclaws would be curious enough to poke around the portal after the warnings went out?
I was, yes, but I'm always going to be worried about anything happening to them. And I knew they'd be smart enough to seek help if the situation calls for it which is something that Rooney did.
3. If you had the choice all over again, what house would you rather be the Head of House for?
Another house? That's not Ravenclaw? That's a tough one. I've had some people mention that Gryffindor would've suited my line of work more so, if I had to choose, probably Gryffindor. I work with quite a few Gryffindors as well on extra defensive lessons and other interests linked to my subject so I think I could see that working.
4. Heard rumours of top secret experiments happening up in 'Claw tower that might have something to do with a few twitching Gryffindors. Any comments on that?
What happens in Ravenclaw Tower stays in Ravenclaw Tower. Sorry, Blaise, but you're not finding out anything top secret from me.
5. After a term this hectic, how will you unwind for the summer?
A break is just what we need, I bet. Healer Reed and I are going on a short holiday to celebrate the end of the school year. Nothing fancy but very relaxing, all the same.
ravenclaw prefects
He's beauty, he's grace, and his name is Rooney Bronwyn. This Ravenclaw prefect is the sixth year with big dreams and big potential. He had a difficult term, but through it all, he looked out for younger students, took an active role in classes, and left Hogwartians wondering just how he manages to deal with the drama that comes from being in the spotlight. Lucky for readers, the yearbook staff has done some digging just for you. Enjoy!
1. Hey Rooney, thanks for sitting down with us today! Let's start with something simple, shall we? What's the best part about being a prefect?
Feeling recognised and appreciated for your dedication to the school, your house and your peers.
2. Working with fellow Claw, Kitty Valentine, must have been fun. What's something you learned about her during your time together?
She's got a large independence about her and isn't frightened to stick to her guns, even if the majority says she is wrong. Kitty is her own person and she's taught me a lot about myself as a friend, a co-prefect and a Ravenclaw.
3. Word in the corridor is that you hope to do big things in the acting world someday. What characteristics do you possess that'll help you be successful in achieving your goal?
Without trying to sound big-headed, I would say talent. I have exactly what I need to get on stage in the shows I want to take part in. I'm a dreamer and I always have been, so I'm definitely determined to meet those dreams that I have.
4. Do you think that galleons can buy happiness?
No. Unless you're the type of person who finds happiness in material things and not the relationships you hold with others.
5. Being a badged student at Hogwarts means that others take notice when you act and speak. What kind of example do you hope to set for the younger Hogwartians?
That it's okay to have opinions that aren't widely accepted and that having dreams is not a bad thing, no matter if people say they're stupid.
6. If you had to teach a subject at Hogwarts, which would you choose and why?
History of Magic. There's so much history to learn and everyone has different interpretations and opinions of things. With each new day that begins, the previous becomes a part of history. It's evergrowing.
7. You were put in quite a dangerous and difficult situation this term. How did you push through it and is there anything Hogwarts as a community can do in the future to keep events like that from happening again?
The answer is that I don't know. I don't know how I got through it and I don't know how Hogwarts can change to make things easier for students. Did anyone come into the portal after us? No. Maybe working on this sense of community would be a starting point.
8. Where in the school do you go when you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the castle?
The Prefects Lounge, for sure. Sometimes the library. I build igloos out of books and spend hours in my own world.
9. If you could see ten years into your future, would you want to and why?
No, no. Definitely not. I have all of these dreams and things that I want to do. Seeing if they would work out or not takes away from the hard work required to make them a reality. I would want to experience my life for the first time as and when it happens instead of waiting for things.
10. Do you have any words of wisdom for younger Ravenclaws looking to find their place at Hogwarts?
Take a step back and breathe every once in a while. Be yourself and pay little attention to the thoughts of others. A lion doesn't lose sleep over the opinions of sheep. (It doesn't matter if you're not a Gryffindor)
1. Hey Rooney, thanks for sitting down with us today! Let's start with something simple, shall we? What's the best part about being a prefect?
Feeling recognised and appreciated for your dedication to the school, your house and your peers.
2. Working with fellow Claw, Kitty Valentine, must have been fun. What's something you learned about her during your time together?
She's got a large independence about her and isn't frightened to stick to her guns, even if the majority says she is wrong. Kitty is her own person and she's taught me a lot about myself as a friend, a co-prefect and a Ravenclaw.
3. Word in the corridor is that you hope to do big things in the acting world someday. What characteristics do you possess that'll help you be successful in achieving your goal?
Without trying to sound big-headed, I would say talent. I have exactly what I need to get on stage in the shows I want to take part in. I'm a dreamer and I always have been, so I'm definitely determined to meet those dreams that I have.
4. Do you think that galleons can buy happiness?
No. Unless you're the type of person who finds happiness in material things and not the relationships you hold with others.
5. Being a badged student at Hogwarts means that others take notice when you act and speak. What kind of example do you hope to set for the younger Hogwartians?
That it's okay to have opinions that aren't widely accepted and that having dreams is not a bad thing, no matter if people say they're stupid.
6. If you had to teach a subject at Hogwarts, which would you choose and why?
History of Magic. There's so much history to learn and everyone has different interpretations and opinions of things. With each new day that begins, the previous becomes a part of history. It's evergrowing.
7. You were put in quite a dangerous and difficult situation this term. How did you push through it and is there anything Hogwarts as a community can do in the future to keep events like that from happening again?
The answer is that I don't know. I don't know how I got through it and I don't know how Hogwarts can change to make things easier for students. Did anyone come into the portal after us? No. Maybe working on this sense of community would be a starting point.
8. Where in the school do you go when you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the castle?
The Prefects Lounge, for sure. Sometimes the library. I build igloos out of books and spend hours in my own world.
9. If you could see ten years into your future, would you want to and why?
No, no. Definitely not. I have all of these dreams and things that I want to do. Seeing if they would work out or not takes away from the hard work required to make them a reality. I would want to experience my life for the first time as and when it happens instead of waiting for things.
10. Do you have any words of wisdom for younger Ravenclaws looking to find their place at Hogwarts?
Take a step back and breathe every once in a while. Be yourself and pay little attention to the thoughts of others. A lion doesn't lose sleep over the opinions of sheep. (It doesn't matter if you're not a Gryffindor)
Kitty Valentine is Ravenclaw's own opinionated powerhouse who sported the prefect badge this term. She's unique, an activist in her own right, and a bit of a bookworm. Most of all, Kitty is able to keep the eagles in line during even the most trying of times. We were lucky enough to sit down with Miss Valentine for a chat and see just what makes her tick.
1. Hey Kitty, thanks for taking the time to answer some questions for us. First off, what's it like to walk the halls as a badged student?
Thank you for interviewing me! It's a privilege and an honor to be entrusted with a prefect badge. It's great fun at times, but at other times it can be incredibly exhausting. I feel like I can relate to our staff more now that I know a little of the responsibilities they have for us.
2. You got to work up close and personal with Hogwarts' own heartthrob, Rooney Bronwyn. What's something the ladies and gents of Hogwarts might like to know about him?
Rooney's great! When I first became a prefect I was a little intimidated by him (not sure exactly why) and worried that we might not get along, but I was wrong. We've had disagreements, but we're good friends. He invited me to visit over the summer and it was quite fun.
Since we're on the subject of Rooney, I'm just going to say that I think it's so sweet how much he and Liv love each other. I hope they marry after graduating from Hogwarts and invite all of us to the wedding!
3. What is your favorite part about being a Ravenclaw? Your least favorite?
My favorite part about being a Ravenclaw is that I live in the same area as the other Ravenclaws. Other things I like include our own personal library and the riddles we have to solve to enter the common room. I wouldn't ever say anything bad about our house, but I suppose my least favorite part is when one of us makes a mistake, and someone from another house (or even another Ravenclaw) says: "I thought Ravenclaws were supposed to be smart." That happened to me loads of times last year.
4. After the year we had at Hogwarts, it's safe to say that students and staff are aware of how dangerous life can be, even in a school setting. Is there anything you'd change about the security at Hogwarts to make it safer?
One small thing that could be done would be transport a stair over every trick stair in the castle. Then first years wouldn't have to worry about the illusion if they put their foot down, because there'd also be a real one.
Maybe stationing one or two permanent MLE employees could help too, though we might not need that with our current very formidable headmistress.
5. Speaking of safety, what's your favorite defensive spell and why?
Protego as a strictly defensive spell because it's simple and effective. I know this isn't a defensive spell, but Cantis is my all-time favorite spell for a duel. So far I haven't been able to hit someone with it, but maybe next year I will!
6. If you could trade places with any witch or wizard for a day, who would you choose and why?
The Minister of Magic! And it's not because I really want to be Minister - because I don't, but I DO want to start a dialogue on Muggle/Wizarding relations. Personally I feel it's wrong that we don't share our medical advances with the Muggle world, and I hope someday the Statue gets repealed. If I were Minister for just one day, then I could get that issue in people's minds.
7. When you're not focused on school work and patrolling, what do you do to occupy your time?
I love reading, so on most days you'd probably be able to catch me reading just for the pleasure of it. I also like taking pictures and assembling unofficial yearbook albums. I also hand out leaflets with information on the Statute of Secrecy and why it may not be needed anymore. Would you like one?
8. Which book, magical or mundane, is your favorite and why?
Coraline is my favorite "mundane" book, though ironically it's also about magic and alternate realities. Aside from liking the wicked cool button eyes, I also liked how Coraline realizes that the real versions of her family and neighbors were much better than the fake, supposedly flawless versions that were made just for her. Because our quirks and supposed flaws are part of what makes us who we are, and learning to accept and love each other the way we are is important.
Historical books are also great, especially the ones about Harry Potter, and books on Muggle/wizard relations.
9. If you could only eat one house elf-prepared meal for the rest of your life, which would it be?
Um...maybe lasagna, chips and pears. I love pears, and if this going to be my only meal then it should have something, right?
10. Before you go, is there any advice you can offer to young Ravenclaws looking to lead someday?
I'd advise them to be aware of the needs of their fellow students and to take the imitative. Even if you're not a prefect, you can still find ways to be of assistance. Be yourself, and I know you'll do great.
1. Hey Kitty, thanks for taking the time to answer some questions for us. First off, what's it like to walk the halls as a badged student?
Thank you for interviewing me! It's a privilege and an honor to be entrusted with a prefect badge. It's great fun at times, but at other times it can be incredibly exhausting. I feel like I can relate to our staff more now that I know a little of the responsibilities they have for us.
2. You got to work up close and personal with Hogwarts' own heartthrob, Rooney Bronwyn. What's something the ladies and gents of Hogwarts might like to know about him?
Rooney's great! When I first became a prefect I was a little intimidated by him (not sure exactly why) and worried that we might not get along, but I was wrong. We've had disagreements, but we're good friends. He invited me to visit over the summer and it was quite fun.
Since we're on the subject of Rooney, I'm just going to say that I think it's so sweet how much he and Liv love each other. I hope they marry after graduating from Hogwarts and invite all of us to the wedding!
3. What is your favorite part about being a Ravenclaw? Your least favorite?
My favorite part about being a Ravenclaw is that I live in the same area as the other Ravenclaws. Other things I like include our own personal library and the riddles we have to solve to enter the common room. I wouldn't ever say anything bad about our house, but I suppose my least favorite part is when one of us makes a mistake, and someone from another house (or even another Ravenclaw) says: "I thought Ravenclaws were supposed to be smart." That happened to me loads of times last year.
4. After the year we had at Hogwarts, it's safe to say that students and staff are aware of how dangerous life can be, even in a school setting. Is there anything you'd change about the security at Hogwarts to make it safer?
One small thing that could be done would be transport a stair over every trick stair in the castle. Then first years wouldn't have to worry about the illusion if they put their foot down, because there'd also be a real one.
Maybe stationing one or two permanent MLE employees could help too, though we might not need that with our current very formidable headmistress.
5. Speaking of safety, what's your favorite defensive spell and why?
Protego as a strictly defensive spell because it's simple and effective. I know this isn't a defensive spell, but Cantis is my all-time favorite spell for a duel. So far I haven't been able to hit someone with it, but maybe next year I will!
6. If you could trade places with any witch or wizard for a day, who would you choose and why?
The Minister of Magic! And it's not because I really want to be Minister - because I don't, but I DO want to start a dialogue on Muggle/Wizarding relations. Personally I feel it's wrong that we don't share our medical advances with the Muggle world, and I hope someday the Statue gets repealed. If I were Minister for just one day, then I could get that issue in people's minds.
7. When you're not focused on school work and patrolling, what do you do to occupy your time?
I love reading, so on most days you'd probably be able to catch me reading just for the pleasure of it. I also like taking pictures and assembling unofficial yearbook albums. I also hand out leaflets with information on the Statute of Secrecy and why it may not be needed anymore. Would you like one?
8. Which book, magical or mundane, is your favorite and why?
Coraline is my favorite "mundane" book, though ironically it's also about magic and alternate realities. Aside from liking the wicked cool button eyes, I also liked how Coraline realizes that the real versions of her family and neighbors were much better than the fake, supposedly flawless versions that were made just for her. Because our quirks and supposed flaws are part of what makes us who we are, and learning to accept and love each other the way we are is important.
Historical books are also great, especially the ones about Harry Potter, and books on Muggle/wizard relations.
9. If you could only eat one house elf-prepared meal for the rest of your life, which would it be?
Um...maybe lasagna, chips and pears. I love pears, and if this going to be my only meal then it should have something, right?
10. Before you go, is there any advice you can offer to young Ravenclaws looking to lead someday?
I'd advise them to be aware of the needs of their fellow students and to take the imitative. Even if you're not a prefect, you can still find ways to be of assistance. Be yourself, and I know you'll do great.