The Hogwarts Headliner, Bonus Issue

Reducio

What’s your favorite flavor of Oreo?

Probably birthday cake? Yeah, skeptics, I can eat Oreos! Seriously, they’re vegan. I mean, that’s a little gross if you think about it, but it’s good for me!

How often do you shower?

I don’t know, take a whiff. Nah, I’m kidding- I try for every other day, I guess.

Which of your scars has the best story behind it?

Huh, well… if we’re talking straight scars ‘n stuff, I guess that would be when this big one on my knee. I tried making a homemade zipline but uh… it didn’t really work out. If it’s all my scars, the burn scars on my back and neck are from when I was set on fire! I know, not a very pleasant story, and I probably could’ve gotten them removed, but they remind me to stay humble.

What’s an electronic you miss while you’re at Hogwarts?

My phoooooone.

What’s your latest obsession?

Drag! 100% drag.

Would you like to be famous?

Oh hell no. If I got in trouble and I was famous, which I would, I’d be a total embarrassment to my family. I already am, so I don’t need that to be broadcasted on national television, or anything.

What’s the most beautiful view you’ve seen?

A lot of the girls at Hogwarts are pretty.

What do you like, but are kind of embarrassed to admit?

… girls? No, I’m not embarrassed about that… maybe writing for the Headliner, actually. You’d imagine that what with all my griping about deadlines and proper grammar, I’d absolutely hate it here- but I don’t. I love it. Duh.

What job would you be terrible at?

Anything involving paperwork or sitting still for more than three minutes.

What’s something you’re self-conscious about?

Maybe some of my scars? I guess that’s the price you pay for being clumsy. Or maybe my grades, I guess.

If your childhood had a smell, what would it be?

Anti-septic.

When people look at you, what do you think they see?

The hottest lesbian to ever walk into Hogwarts.

What’s the most difficult thing you’ve ever done?

Admit that someone was hotter than me. No, I’m only kind of kidding. I think any time I have to admit that I’m wrong. I’m not wrong a lot, you know; not because I’m smart, but because I’m always right.

What do you do when you hang out with your friends?

Absolutely nothing. It’s wonderful.

Do you like to cook?

Okay, I know I used to write the recipes, but I suck at cooking. Or really following any kind of directions, at all.

Do you want children?

You know what? Maybe. Yeah, I think so.

Your dorm is on fire, as per usual. What three things do you grab first?

My cat, Leo, is priority number one. Number two would probably be my wand, then, right? Third is… maybe some pants. I don’t sleep with pants.

In your group of friends, what role do you play?

The hot one. Duh.

What’s an instrument you wish you could play?

The tuba! They look freaking ridiculous… I wanna look ridiculous playing an instrument. You always look hot playing the guitar or the piano.

What’s your least favorite color?

Ugh, green looks awful on me. I guess that’s why I’m not in Slytherin.

If you made a documentary, what would it be about?

Honestly? Seriously? Probably something about veterans of war from around the world, and how war affects them and their families. PTSD, disabilities, stuff like that.

What’s something you’re tired of?

Ugh, fire. So common. Why can’t we almost die by, like, tigers? Tigers would make a good headline.

Is there a dessert you don’t like?

I mean, I can’t really eat most desserts… that’s kinda mean, rubbing it in my face.

Heels or flats?

FLATS. How do people even walk in heels? I try, sometimes… but I usually end up taking them off.

How many people have you kissed?

… probably too many. Oops. But like... upwards of 4, I wanna say.

What’s your biggest weakness?

Sometimes I forget to listen to people. But otherwise, I’m a god.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

Can I say girls again? No? Okay… sometimes I like to read ahead in class. I know, what a nerd. I’m ashamed, too.

What do you first notice about someone when you meet them?

If they’re hot or not. Nah, I’m kidding- I swear! Probably their height, because then I have to guess how old they are.

Who do you miss the most?

My dad. I mean, he’s not like, dead or anything, but I don’t get to see him often after I moved back to London.

What’s your favorite food?

Fruit. I love fruit! It’s nature’s dessert.

What is true friendship?

Knowing when to listen, knowing when they need a hug, and knowing when to slap them across the face and sucker-punching them in the gut. And like support and stuff. True friendship can outlast distance, time, and growth. … wow, I almost sounded smart right there.

What does your pet’s name mean?

Leo means lion in Latin, and cats are… yeah, you get it. King of the jungle, baby! Or, I guess King of Hogwarts...

How do you like your coffee?

Black. No sugar. I like light roasts better, but I’ll take what I can get.

Do you like your handwriting?

Yeah! It’s really neat, so I can always reread the (few) notes I take in class. My spelling, though...

What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?

I mean, everyone already knows that I’m hot… so whenever someone compliments my schoolwork, I guess. ‘Cos you know, I actually work really hard at that.

What’s one thing people don’t know about you?

I have a younger brother…? I mean, some people know, but I don’t talk about him a lot. His name’s Scout, and he’s a sweetheart. Kind of ugly, though, but all babies are.

Do you honestly think you should be in Hufflepuff?

I’ve thought about this a lot, actually, and I don’t know. I used to think I should’ve been put into Gryffindor, because I act like a party animal… but after a couple of years, I really do think that Hufflepuff looks good on me. No, seriously! I look damn good in yellow, you can’t deny that.

What’s your favorite thing about each of the other houses?

Gryffindors are so unpredictable- as a whole. I mean, you’ve got people like Scott to crazies like Anastasia. But individually? You never get bored with a Gryffindor around. Ravenclaws are crazy smart, so you can copy their homework… that is, if they even finished it in the first place. They just have so much random crap shoved up in their cranium, having a conversation with them is having your own personal sitcom. And Slytherins… well, most of them are okay. Actually, most of them are fantastic. And they always push me to be better.

Do you like surprises?

Dear God, no. If you scare me or sneak up on me, I could throw something at you. Like, maybe a cat.

When are you happiest?

When nothing and everything matters at the same time. Like, in a fight, I guess, or when I’m just cutting my hair in the bathroom. Nothing matters anymore, but everything matters, too.

What’s something you could teach me about?

How to properly punch someone. Seriously, if you do it wrong, you could break your fingers or your wrist. And I guess I could teach y'all music theory, or how to play the piano or guitar.

Why did you join the Headliner?

Because I love writing, uh, about, um… yeah, no, that’s a lie. Because there’s someone on the team I want to impress, okay?? But don't tell anyone.

Is it easier to love or to be loved?

I guess I learned this the hard way- it’s so much easier to love. In order to be loved, you need to earn it; you’ve got to love before you deserve love.

What do you wish you knew more about?

How to get Slytherins to fall in love with you.

What’s special about the place you grew up in?

The food… the music… the skate parks… oh, and the people. Chicago is beautiful, man. I mean, ignore all the crime statistics and the police brutality and the intense stigma surrounding the South Side… seriously, I miss Chicago so much.

What type of article would you never want to write?

Horoscopes. I fall asleep in Astronomy like, all the time, and I don’t even sleep well at night. I know nothing about the stars.

Do you think the content that the Headliner is exposing would put the team members in danger?

I- what? I mean, I hope not… Do we publish that kind of stuff? I really hope not… I swear, if someone dares to lay even a FINGER on this team, I’ll break their back.

What are you most grateful for?

Girls. No, kidding! I’m kidding. Probably my parents… my friends… Green Day… I’m only kind of kidding about Green Day, by the way.

What was your childhood like?

Wild. I… I got bullied a lot, but Thomas and I-he was my best friend in Chicago-were always running around the city, doing who knows what. And then I moved to London, which was crazy.

What does love look like to you?

I don’t know, man. My parents are in love, and they live across an ocean. I think it’s just understanding. Some sort of soul connection, and the feeling that you would literally die for the person, or people, you love. You would do anything and everything to make sure they’re happy and safe, your own happiness, health, and needs be damned.

Reducio

When do you feel most out of place?

Most out of place? I guess in like, some sort of academic competition. I do not like academics, and I do not like competitions. So, double whammy.

What do you do differently than most people?

Eesh. Probably a lot of things… I don't use the dishwasher? In our house, we use it as the drying rack. I'm not sure if using a dishwasher is "normal" or not, but most of my friends think the way we do it is weird.

What do you find hilarious but most people don’t find funny?

… death? Am I allowed to say death? My type of humor is usually really dark… Fargo and Dead to Me are some of the funniest shows I’ve ever watched.

What do you have a hard time with, but most people find quite easy?

I am so bad at folding clothes. I try really, really hard, but it’s never as good as when my mom does it.

What quirks do you have?

Okay, this one isn’t really a “quirk”, I guess, but I’m constantly drinking something. And I really do mean constantly.

What’s something you like to do the old-fashioned way?

Asking someone out, I guess. I’d love to Say Anything someone, someday.

What are three of the most significant numbers in your life?

15, because that’s my birthday… 19 is the number of matches I won during my first tennis season, and 8, because I’m Asian. I can’t help it.

What statistics for your life would you most like to see?

The number of people who’ve wanted to punch me in the face. Seriously, I can’t tell if people think I’m more or less annoying than I think I am. I think the number’s gonna be roughly around 150-160, though.

What are some of your personal “rules” that you never break?

You do not joke about suicide. Death in general? Depends on the circumstances. But if you joke about suicide, I will lose all respect for you.

What game do you always lose?

Connect 4. Every time.

What’s the most impressive thing you know how to do?

I can solve a 7x7 Rubik’s Cube in 15 minutes! I also make some pretty good cookies.

What flavor of ice cream do you wish existed?

I will say this once, and I will say this a thousand times… lavender ice cream with raw honeycomb is the best ice cream in the entire world. But, that already exists… Ooh, if one of Idina Menzel's high notes got turned into ice cream, I'd eat that.

What’s your favorite joke?

What do you call a snobbish criminal walking down the stairs?

A condescending con descending.

What’s your favorite season?

The weird little blip between fall and winter, where it’s cold enough where I can wear lots of layers, I don’t have to deal with insects, but I don’t have to deal with 4 feet of snow. Also, NO ALLERGIES.

What are your favorite lyrics?

“Right now the best part's what we don't know, take a little step into the unknown. Everybody's trying to tell me no-no; I wanna bless the rains and dance away like Toto wherever I go.” (Toto, by Drax Project)

What do you want your epitaph to be?

Something ironic. Like… “Just wing it, unless it’s flying.” You know, like a very bad Schwarzenegger one-liner that doesn’t really make sense.

What would a perfect day be like?

Wake up at like, 11, have an amazing delicious burrito for lunch, just bike around doing nothing in particular with my friends, and then watch the sunset with a picnic. Pretending it’s pre-COVID, go see an… adult movie at the movie theater at like 10, and then wander around downtown until maybe 2 in the morning.

What’s your favorite thing about your best friend?

She’s the only person who realizes that I can’t deal with talking to people for more than a few hours at a time, especially over the phone/on social media.

What do you always forget?

Physically? My wallet. Mentally? That people have different opinions, specifically when it comes to politics.

What smells make you happy?

Lavender, cinnamon, and my mom’s cooking.

What’s your best piece of advice?

If it won’t matter in 5 years, just stop arguing. There’s literally no point in being a jerk for no reason, so drop it.

What’s something you don’t understand?

Uhhhh why everyone on this site is so freaking talented, how people do things with long nails.

What is beauty?

When something is beautiful, the world will be a little worse without it. It sparks genuine happiness and joy, or it soothes your soul. Everyone is beautiful :]

Reducio

What’s your favorite holiday?

Christmas, obviously. Presents are important. Or my birthday, does that count? Quite frankly, it ought to be a national holiday.

Would you rather have a house on the water or in the city?

I mean, we already have both, but I suppose I prefer our house on the water.

What’s your favorite sport?

Stupid question, Quidditch.

Red or pink?

Red.

What’s your favorite hobby?

Flying, or practicing spells.

If you dyed your hair, what color(s) would it be?

If I was just doing natural colors, I’d do blonde, since my mother is blonde. I’d love to see how I’d look with blue hair though.

What’s your lucky number?

21. It’s a decent sized number, not too big or too large, and I find that most important events for me tend to be on the twenty-first.

What’s the weirdest skill you’ve ever learned?

I can dance half of the Waltz of the Flowers from the Nutcracker with a book on my head while singing.

What’s a phrase or some slang you say a lot?

I call people “love” quite a bit. I also say "holy [REDACTED] hell", but that’s not really slang.
*Editor's note: LANGUAGE!

What’s your favorite candy from the Hogwarts Express trolley?

Cauldron Cakes.

Can you speak another language?

Three and a half, actually. French, Italian, Chinese, and I’m working on learning Russian. I can also read Latin and Greek, but one doesn’t exactly speak dead languages.

Who is the most fascinating person you’ve met?

I got to meet the Minister of Magic once when I was younger, so that was interesting.

If you could give everyone just one piece of advice, what would it be?

Mermaids don’t let the opinions of shrimp limit them. There will always be people who doubt you or try to stop you. Ignore them. Live your dreams.

Do you prefer to work in a team or alone?

Depends on the context. Generally, I find that if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself, but I work alright on a team if it’s needed.

What’s the best meal you’ve ever had?

Oh, easy. It was at this little cafe in France last summer. Escargot in butter, then this amazing crispy orange duck, then for dessert, this amazing lavender creme brulee with the best coffee I’ve ever had. I’ve had some delicious meals and some better coffee, but this was certainly the best.

How many other countries have you visited?

Oh, good Lord, I’m sure I’ve lost count. France, Italy, China, Russia, India, Brazil, America, and there’s a few more I can’t think of, so let’s say more than ten and less than twenty...

What would you do with the extra time if you never had to sleep?

You say that as though I need to sleep currently. I suppose I would study more.

What do you want to be remembered for?

Being the best Quidditch player this century. Obviously whatever else I do as an Auror as well, but mostly Quidditch.

How do you know you’re in love?

The person makes your stomach flutter and you can’t speak straight around him. Not that this has happened to me, but I imagine it’s happened to people in love with me.

What’s your go-to for a good laugh?

First years. They’re always being stupid and it’s hilarious.

What’s your favorite animal?

Tigers.

What do you like on your pizza?

Pizza is disgusting plebeian food.

Do you sleep on the left side, right side, or center of your bed?

Center, where do you sleep, weirdo?

What does creativity mean to you?

Something useless that vastly complicates things.

Heels or flats?

Heels, always.

Do you want any tattoos?

Absolutely bloody not.

Does fate exist?

It really doesn’t. Everything that happens to us is a sum of choices, be it our own or someone else’s. For example, the fact I’m doing this interview is a sum of my choosing to join the newspaper and my parents choosing to send me to Hogwarts. The way I met my best friend was a sum of each of our choices to have been playing a specific game at a specific time. Everything is fully within human control, and fate is merely an excuse for the lazy. If you truly want something, make it happen.

What’s the most useless thing you’ve ever bought?

Good Lord, there’s so many. I suppose it was this solid gold boat I got when I was younger. It was a small sailboat. It sunk when I tried to sail it.

What’s the best bad decision you’ve ever made?

There’s so many. I feel like it’s really not a bad decision if I don’t get in trouble for it.

Do you enjoy being out in nature?

Not particularly, no. I suppose it’s enjoyable for common folk though. Not for anyone who has anything better to do with their life.

What’s your idea of paradise?

Coffee and a good book at our house in Provence.

What’s the best sound in the world?

Coffee brewing.

Whose writing is the hardest to edit?

I can’t really say, since I’ve only edited two people.

What’s your least favorite trait in a person?

Shyness. I can respect or at least understand most other traits in people, but shyness is idiotic. Be confident enough in yourself and what you stand for that you can present yourself in a flattering manner.

Who’s your favorite professor, past or present?

Professor Violet Henley is probably my favorite so far. She was always ready to help us and seemed like she really wanted us to learn all that we could. Also, baked goods every class were amazing. I could say my current favorite is Professor Lian. She’s a total badass and I love the way she teaches Transfiguration. It’s so straightforward and logical when she explains it.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Savor every day because life changes quickly. While I generally enjoy the changes of life, they come unexpectedly and you never know when might be your last time talking to someone or doing a particular activity.

What are people often surprised to learn about you?

People are a bit shocked when I first curse in front of them, so I suppose that. I’m not foul-mouthed or anything but I do use strong language and people seem to not expect that from me.
*Editor's note: Yeah right.

What’s the best time of day?

Early morning. The sunrise is quite lovely and it’s like there’s an entire other world that most people don’t know about.

Do you have a morning beauty ritual?

Obviously I do, I mean, look at me.

How do you like your coffee?

No milk, at least a tablespoon of sugar

What’s the coolest thing in the world?

Flying. There really is nothing like it.

Are you usually early or late?

To anything other than lessons, late. My time is valuable and it’s fine for others to wait for me, but I wait for no one.

What are some things you’ve had to unlearn?

I’ve had to unlearn somethings I was taught growing up. Supposedly, I had a “superiority complex”, but I don’t see it. Anyway, I’ve had to unlearn that a bit and work on being nicer to people who are less fabulous than me. I suppose I’m still working on that.

Whose writing do you like most, on the Headliner team?

I actually love reading Ami’s writing. And no, I’m not just saying that because she’s the one conducting this interview. And no, she’s not allowed to tell anyone that.
*Editor's note: HELL YEAH BABES!

What have you only recently formed an opinion about?

Braids. My mother always had our elf braid my hair when I was younger, but I didn’t have to do them myself until I came here. They’re far more difficult than they’re given credit for. And they’re rather fun.

What do you judge people for?

Being idiots. I’m not actually that judgemental, despite what you may have heard. I try to judge people for things that they’ve made choices about, not things that are out of their control. So like, I generally judge people for a terrible outfit or being a cowardly little weasel or a massive bitch, but not for being ugly or things like that.

What are you afraid people see when they look at you?

Do I have to answer this one? Fine, alright. I’m afraid people will see just another generic Pureblood princess. Don’t get me wrong, I’m proud of my family and all, but I don’t want people to think that my sole ambition in life is to pop out a bunch of Pureblood heirs [REDACTED] sorry, don’t write that to throw the best party. I’m going to do so much more than that.

What’s your worst subject?

Astronomy. I have O’s in it, of course, it just bores me and I don’t find it useful.

What’s the best part of being on the Headliner team?

Getting to hear the perspectives of other students and learning a bit more about different people’s thought processes.

If you could write a gossip article on one professor, who would it be?

Professor Jensen or Professor Browne. Probably Jensen, but really either.

Reducio

Do you believe in ghosts?

Nope.

If you could only say one word for the rest of your life, what would it be?

The f word for sure. It’s so versatile.

If you could sing a duet with anyone, who would it be?

Taylor Swift or Matteo Bocelli.

What’s the last book you really got into?

The new Hunger Games prequel. It was awesome.

What decade had the best sense of style?

40’s or 50’s. They had a whole lot of other problems (like so, so, so many other problems), but the fashion...

What songs do you have completely memorized?

Legit any Hamilton or Taylor Swift song. Also most Disney songs.

If you had a clock that counts down to any one event of your choosing, what event would you want it to count down to?

Meeting the love of my life (ugh, I’m a complete hopeless romantic).

What’s your favorite drink?

Coffee (that’s kinda why Ana is so obsessed).

What are some accomplishments that you’re really proud of?

I would say a lot of my academic stuff. I’m a huge overachiever academically IRL and I’m fairly proud of all that I’ve done with it.

What are you most grateful for?

Ugh, I’m being a corny mess right now, but I would have to say my parents. Especially with this crazy world we live in. They’ve always been amazing and supportive of me and I honestly don’t know what I would do without them.

What’s the most essential part of a friendship?

Loyalty. Everything else is icing, but loyalty really is foundational. You can’t trust someone who isn’t loyal, and I personally don’t like being friends with people I can’t trust.

Why do we respect the dead more than the living?

I would say because the dead aren’t around to lose the respect. Like with a celebrity or whatever, they can say or do something that makes people cringe and lose respect for them. With dead people, their lives have already happened and it’s really easy to ignore the bad parts.

What’s something you wish you knew at 13?

Not to care so much about what my friends thought. I’m literally not even connected with most of them anymore, and it’s only been like 5 years.

How do you feel about clowns?

NOPE, terrified of them.

What’s the worst topping to put on ice cream?

Marshmallows cause marshmallows are disgusting and also they get weird and hard and hurt your teeth.

What are three of the most significant numbers in your life?

13, 21 and 100. No explanations or anything for you. Nah, jk, 13 is an important age, 21 is an important day, and 100 is something else.

As you get older, what are you becoming more and more afraid of?

Aging and not making an impact on the world.

What gives your life meaning?

Coffee and my goals. Really both. More my goals though. My mom jokes about how I can’t do anything halfway and how I have to plan everything out five years, which is very true. I have a very detailed five-year plan, and a slightly less detailed fifteen-year plan, so that gives me quite a bit to work towards.

What do you want your epitaph to be?

Either “A tomb now suffices her for whom the world was not enough.”, (that was similar to Alexander the Great’s epitaph) or “I knew if I waited around long enough something like this would happen.”

Who or what inspires you to be better?

I would say the mess that the world is. We have to do better than the people that came before us. They’ve gotten us this far but there’s so much more we can do as the human race. I mean, I guess that’s the big thing that inspires everyone, but yeah.

If you could make a cameo in any TV show, what would it be?

Gossip Girl or Criminal Minds.

What is beauty?

Physically, it’s utterly and completely subjective. I mean, there’s the Golden Ratio thing, but really, it’s totally subjective and constantly changing. Not to be corny, but like real beauty is a person who actually cares about the people around them and doing their best to make the world a better place.

What do you wish people would do more?

Consider other people when they make choices. So many of the current issues would be solved if the people making the decisions actually thought about how their actions would affect others.

Reducio

If you could give yourself a different name, what would it be?

Well, for one, I wouldn't change my name even if I could. I'm perfectly fine with Cecily. But I dunno, I've never really thought about it.

What’s the craziest thing you’ve done during your time at Hogwarts?

Leaving the balls early and watching my dorm mates come back burnt to a crisp. I mean, what the hell?

What’s your favorite comfort food?

Shepherd’s Pie.

What language do you think sounds the coolest?

I think Russian sounds pretty cool.

What’s your least favorite trait in a person?

Ignorance. I can't stand it. Just, like, think before you speak, okay?

Do you believe in true love?

I guess so?

What was the last book you really got into?

I've actually had a hard time finding books I'm interested in lately. If you have any suggestions, send them my way!

What hobbies would you like to get into?

I would love to learn how to make brooms. That's not really a hobby, but…

Which professor should get their own reality TV show?

Oh! So Ami once told me about this show called, um, "The Office" or something, and the characters like look into the camera when they're annoyed. I think that would be perfect for Jensen and Browne.

What’s your favorite thing to do indoors?

Reading (I know, I'm such a Ravenclaw).

What’s been the most significant plot twist in your own life?

Becoming a Prefect. It's a lot of work but it has really affected my time at Hogwarts.

What did you do last summer?

I camped out under the stars-- which sounds cliché but it's so fun-- I read a lot of books...uh, I spent time with my family…how specific do you want me to be?

What’s the strangest way you’ve become friends with someone?

Falling down a flight of stairs. (It's a long story. Sorry, Celynne.)

Who is the best role model a person could have?

Someone who embodies everything they want to be, and whom they can easily ask for advice.

What’s something you can do that most people can’t?

Er, there's not much. Procrastinate for long periods of time and still meet deadlines?

What do you have a hard time with, but most people find quite easy?

Apologising.

What’s the most impressive skill you have?

I would say my skill on the Quidditch pitch is really the best thing I've got going for me.

What’s the best single day on the calendar?

The first day all the wildflowers are in bloom.

What are some things you’ve had to unlearn?

Growing up with two older brothers, I more or less learned that life is a competition. At Hogwarts, it's less of a fight against others and more one for your life.

What city would you most like to live in?

I wouldn't want to live in a city, but I suppose I'd love to visit New York City. Or really anywhere.

What would be the most amazing adventure to go on?

A trip around the world with my best friend. We both just want to go everywhere and see everything, so it would be so much fun.

What stereotype do you completely live up to?

The nose-in-a-book Ravenclaw.

Flats or heels?

Flats. Heels are so impractical; how do people deal with them? I could never.

What’s your favorite way to waste time?

Reading. Or flying.

What type of pet do you have?

None at the moment, although I'm getting an owl soon. When I was much younger, though, I abducted a ferret from the moor and named him Kieran. My mum made me release him pretty quickly.

What’s the best thing about Hogwarts?

The grounds. It's always beautiful down by the lake. Also, Quidditch-- it's so much more fun playing on a team than by myself.

On a scale of 1-10, how dumb is Ami Procoppio?

10. *pause* But actually more like an 8.5.
*Editor's note: Note the lack of hesitation. Ouch.

What would be your ideal way to spend the weekend?

Reading under a tree by the Great Lake, a pick-up Quidditch game, joining Amadea on one of her walks, staying far away from Ami's cat. Nothing too exciting. Although if someone were to propose an adventure, I wouldn't be against it….

What’s your favorite dessert?

Apple pie.

What’s the most annoying habit that other people have?

Some people are way too cheery in the morning.

What is something that a ton of people are obsessed with, but you just don’t get the point of?

Dressing up. I, erm, dislike it very much. Some people seem to love it (I'm looking at you, Blossom Ball), but it just seems like a lot of frivolity to me.

When do you feel truly “alive”?

When I'm playing Quidditch, or just flying in general. Any time I'm off the ground, on a broom.

What would be the scariest monster you could imagine?

Some soul-sucking demon creature that lives under my bed? I dunno. …Wait, don't those already exist? If a dementor lived under my bed, I'd be pretty scared. Although maybe we'd be friends. You never know.

What’s the best compliment you’ve received?

Probably one about a Quidditch game I played. I don't really remember any specifically.

What are you really good at, but kind of embarrassed that you are good at it?

Doing homework five minutes before class.

Have you ever saved someone’s life?

Not that I'm aware of. I guess at Hogwarts that makes me in the minority, huh?

What do you strongly suspect but have no proof of?

That Ami Procoppio is smarter than she acts.

What’s a personality trait you value most in people?

Loyalty.

What keeps you up at night?

The mere thought of everything we might never know.

What is true friendship?

True friendship is being able to enjoy the other person's company, even when you're not doing anything.

What do you look down on people for?

A lack of common decency.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Um… putting off homework in favor of doing… well, really anything else. Does that count?

How often do you curse?

An average amount? I mean, I don't go over the top with it, but I'm not afraid to cuss when the situation calls for it.

What’s your honest opinion about Hogwarts?

I think it’s a murder school where parents send their children to get killed, and I’m frankly astounded it’s still open. That being said, I have learned a lot here, and the castle and grounds are impressive.

What foods do you absolutely hate?

I don’t think I really hate any food, but I'm not a huge fan of zucchini or eggplant.

When are you happiest?

Lying in the middle of an open field, when all I can see is sky and grass. A cool breeze, the warm sun. Maybe a book. Also applicable at night, under the stars.

When are you the most inspired?

At night, just about the time I'm trying to fall asleep. It drives me mad.

Sweet or savory?

Sweet, although I am a fan of the sweet and salty combo on occasion.

What’s your favorite part of being in the Headliner team?

I haven't been here for too long, but I love that we all do our individual parts, and it all comes together at the end to form one whole issue. And I guess the people are okay too.

Is it more important to be respected or liked?

Trick question. You can, and should, be both.

Reducio

What’s one song you never get tired of?

I've been listening to "Glue Myself Shut" by Noah Kahan on repeat lately. Honorable mentions include "Mr. Jones" by Counting Crows and "Have It All" by Jason Mraz, which I once listened to for 11 hours straight when it was first released. I… have an obsession with Jason Mraz.

Do you have any siblings?

Yes, an older brother. I like him sometimes.

Who’s your favorite character from a TV show, movie, or book?

Off the top of my head: Nix Riley from Rot & Ruin is an underrated badass from an underrated series.

I know you’re young, but where would you like to retire?

A small, rural town. Considering I plan to move to a city, retiring to a little country bumpkin town would really bring me back to my roots growing up in a small town. I want to be able to walk to places, but also have privacy and open land-- or at least a backyard. Some nice scenery wouldn't be too bad, either.

How well do you cope when you don’t have your phone with you for an extended period of time?

Depends. If I’m going out, I get anxious when I don’t have it. If I’m just chilling at home, I could go quite a while.

What could you give a 15-minute presentation on with absolutely no preparation?

The pros and cons of the Electoral College (thanks, 11th-grade Civics class). Alternatively, anything Broadway related because I have an unhealthy obsession.

What would be your first question after waking up from being cryogenically frozen for 100 years?

“Who the hell are you?”

What mistake do you keep making again and again?

I always drop negatives on math exams, dammit.

In your group of friends, what role do you play?

The cynic.

What’s a controversial opinion you have?

Political debates are my s***. If that's not an opinion, I don't believe in fate or destiny or any of that. (Which you can hear about in the latest episode of Teatime the podcast, with cecamidea!)
*Editor's note: PLUG PLUG PLUG PLUG PLU-

How often do you stay up past 3 a.m.?

Very, very rarely. I value my sleep! Unlike some of you people…

What did you think you would grow out of but haven’t?

Disliking shopping.

There are two types of people in this world. What are the two types?

Logicians and fools.

(wait that sounded super arrogant)

What makes you angry?

When people present uneducated opinions, then fall back on fallacies once they know they've lost. Just, like, find some sources instead of attacking people, a'ight? Also, can we normalize changing your opinion when presented with new information? Like, give it up, Karen. You know you're wrong. Just admit it and move on.

What is the most annoying question that people ask you?

After every single track meet I get people asking me how I can jump over hurdles. It's obnoxious. (the answer: practice, plus a healthy disregard for my own well-being.)

What question would you most like to know the answer to?

Just one? I would like to know if Trump genuinely believes the things he says. (Sorry, how political can I get here?)
*Editor's note: I don't know.

What is something that your friends would consider “so you”?

According to Ami, designing and writing a massive amount of postcards to encourage people to vote by mail. Woo, democracy!

How do you define success?

Reaching your goals. What those goals are is up to you.

Are white lies okay?

Yes, if they don’t have the potential to spark bigger lies.

Would you want a tail?

No?

What’s something beautiful you see every day?

Does it count if it’s at night? Because, stars. Which sounds really cheesy, but it's true. Looking at the sky really reminds you of your place in the grand scheme of things. Plus there's so many of them and they're so far away-- dude, my mind can't handle that I might be seeing something that literally exploded 200 years ago. That's wild.

What makes a good life?

I think that if you're happy, successful, and surrounded by people who love you back, then you've done a pretty good for yourself. Of course, what makes people happy and successful is pretty subjective.

What do you hope your last words will be?

This is such a loaded question, and there's no way to give a non-cliché answer. It's like picking your senior quote and then you get the yearbook and four other people used the same one. Also, if my last words are the only thing people remember about me... ouch. Basically, I'm saying that this is a dumb question that I could never give a good enough answer to. Woo, cop-outs.
*Editor's note: Can confirm, Cecily is queen of cop-outs.

Reducio

What could you spend all day talking about?

I could easily spend countless hours dissecting the various goings on about the castle. There has been a lot happening not just this year, but over last as well; and not just within the castle grounds, but also without. It’s fascinating, really, especially when trying to work out just how, exactly, it all relates. In fact, if anyone reading this has any insight into anything at all, however seemingly insignificant, please feel free to send me an owl. I would be very pleased to hear from you.

When are you most yourself?

I’m not really sure how to answer this. Are there cases where someone is someone else? I don’t think I pretend to be something — or someone — that I’m not. I’m always myself. But if you’re meaning when am I most free, then I would have to answer while mounted. Whether on horseback or broom, it doesn’t really matter which. Those times are when I can most easily live in the moment.

Would you rather be sticky or itchy for the rest of your life?

Do I really have to pick one? Neither are pleasant… But I guess that’s the point of the question… Sticky, then, I suppose. At least then you don’t notice it much as long as you’re not moving. Plus you could wear gloves and form-fitted clothing.

If there was one person in the team who you would spend the rest of your life with, who would it be and why?

I… well. I don’t really know anyone well enough to say, I don’t think. I’d like to get to know Henry and Silmataurea better, though. They both seem very interesting.

If you dyed your hair, what color would it be?

I actually don’t think I would. Dye it, that is. I like the colour the way it is. If I were to dye it, it would just be to highlight. Or maybe to make it a deeper shade.

How do you really feel about being in Gryffindor?

Fine, I suppose? I really had no expectations prior to being sorted. Sometimes I think that I might have been sorted better into either Ravenclaw or Slytherin, but from the (ofttimes unsolicited) feedback I’ve had from my peers, they seem to think I suit Gryffindor well. And I quite enjoy the company of most of my Housemates, so I have no complaints.

What’s your favorite thing about your best friend?

I never need to fear about being in competition with them, and they’re very understanding of my occasional need for solitude. (ooc: that is to say… she doesn’t have one)

What’s the weirdest skill you ever learned?

Unfortunately, thanks to my mother, I can confidently say that I have learned several strange skills, some more practical than others. I can fold a tee-shirt in less than 3 seconds, for one. It’s actually a fairly clever Japanese technique. I can also sing the English alphabet in reverse...

Pumpkin juice or butterbeer?

Pumpkin juice, certainly. I made the mistake of drinking Butterbeer once, and even though it wasn’t nearly as bad as it could have been from what I was told, I was not particularly fond of slurring my words or having my head feel like it was full of lead. Never again, I think.
*Editor's note: A woman of sophistication. Pumpkin juice all the way!

What’s your favorite drink?

For such a simple question, this is difficult. I think in the winter, I am rather fond of peppermint mochas. In the spring, my drink of choice is a lemon and lavender tea. In the summer, my mother has an excellent green iced tea recipe that is just perfectly refreshing. And in the autumn, I always crave a hot London Fog.

What’s your favorite kind of weather?

Depends on the occasion. But usually overcast so the sun doesn’t get in my eyes while hunting for the snitch or scouting a jumping course. And then… warm if I’m flying because it can get rather chilly in the air, and temperate if I’m riding so that my horse neither overheats, nor is at risk for colic after a ride.

Ballgown or sundress? Or neither?

I think that ball gowns are beautiful, and the silhouette is lovely. But I don’t like wearing them, myself. They’re just too cumbersome. For formal occasions, I prefer simpler designs. I’m also not particularly partial to sundresses, though. Well, unless it’s one that can pair well with leggings, then it’s alright. Dresses aren’t exactly compatible with horses or brooms, you see.

What’s your favorite place that you’ve ever been to?

Anywhere that I’m visiting that I haven’t been to before, I think. There’s something exciting about experiencing a place or culture for the first time. I enjoy exploring and discovering new things.

If you could give yourself a nickname, what nickname would you want people to call you?

I don’t think there are any nicknames that I would give myself that I would want others to call me. Anything that I could think of would be reserved for close friends and not something I would publicly advertise. Oh, actually, yes there is one. I’m rather enamored with the nickname of Captain.

What’s your favorite smell?

I couldn’t possibly narrow it down to just one. Oiled leather, alfalfa and even settled dust have a particularly nostalgic smell to them. It’s the smell of the stables and of freedom. Then there’s fresh ink, parchment, and leather again. Of books and knowledge. And of course lavender, vanilla, and citrus are soothing, fresh and invigorating. I’ve even recently started really enjoying the smell of the rain, although I’m not really sure why. I don’t like the rain.

What are people often surprised to learn about you?

I’m not sure. I’d imagine asking other people would be better to find that out than asking me. I don’t think I’ve ever had anyone tell me they were surprised to learn something about me. But I’m also not sure if anyone has actually spent any time trying to.

What do you never get tired of?

There are a lot of things that I could say to answer this, but I think above all would be learning. The world has so much to offer and so many things just waiting to be discovered. Even aside from that, there’s always room to learn more about something you enjoy, to continue striving for personal improvement. Or even learning about everyone around you. There’s no end to the knowledge just waiting at your fingertips.

What skill would you like to master?

Everything. If I could someday become a master in everything it is that I enjoy, then I would be very happy. Right now, I’m striving to master Quidditch, to be the best Seeker at the school. But Potions and Charms are also areas of interest to me. As is every school of magic, really. I’m hesitant to focus too much in one area in case I blinder myself and limit myself from developing in an area that could prove really important.

What would your perfect room look like?

Big windows to let in a lot of natural sunlight, a bay window for reading, walls lined with bookshelves stuffed with books, a big four-poster canopy bed, and space enough for a desk. I don’t think I have a preference for any of the other details.

What do you consider to be your best find?

Mn...I think for this, I would have to say it was the time that I was visiting the beach near my last home. I had found what would make for an excellent hiding spot and meant to bury something there, but ended up finding what must have been a time capsule buried in the nineties. It was quite the interesting discovery.

What’s the most impressive skill you have?

Wouldn’t this be better asked of someone else? I’m really not sure what would be considered impressive… if anything at all. Is being observant considered a skill? If so, I suppose I’d answer that I can generally pick up on little details quite well.

What were some of the happiest times of your life so far?

As much as I hate to admit it, I think the happiest of times would have been prior to my immigration to the UK. I rather miss the ocean, and my family back home. I’m hoping this coming year will mark a new ‘happiest times of my life’, though.

What’s the best way a person can spend their time?

Personally, I think the best way someone can spend their time is to spend it improving in some way. Whether that means tending to your health or fitness, or working to develop a skill, or even strengthening friendships and social bonds. Which… essentially leave it very open to interpretation. Which is just fine. The best way to spend time is probably different for everyone.

What gets you fired up?

A challenge. Really, it hardly matters to its nature. I enjoy competition, and that flame alights any time someone or something challenges me. Chess, Quidditch, dueling, competing for marks, a race...I could even use this as a platform to announce that I am likely to accept any challenge posed to me that involves direct competition. For me, I find it the best way to improve.

What fact are you resigned to?

Well, for one at least, that English is a silly and infinitely confusing language where words such as ‘inflammable’ and ‘flammable’ mean the same thing, while ‘disinterested’ and ‘uninterested’ are not synonyms. But I think that might be one reason why I enjoy it so much and why I sought to be an editor for the Headliner. I like learning those little unusual nuances.

What’s the hardest lesson you’ve learned?

Likely that no amount of rationality or explanation can cure idiocy. People that don’t want to accept something as true or untrue, simply won’t. It doesn’t matter how much effort you invest to try to prove whatever it is otherwise. And it seems that the more effort you do invest in that attempt will only be twisted somehow to support their misguided notions. Although I’m not sure if this is a lesson I’ve actually learned yet as I still seem to try to prove it wrong every time.

What’s the best thing you got from your parents?

The best thing that I got from my mother was time. I would often overhear many of my peers complaining, or even exalting, that their parents weren’t around and didn’t have time to spend on them. My mother works long hours, but she’s always tried to make time for me, and it was always the most difficult during those few times when she couldn’t. It’s allowed us to develop a strong relationship. I don’t think there’s anything better that a parent could give a child.

What personality trait do you dislike the most in people?

Irrationality.

What are some of the events in your life that made you who you are today?

Really, everything that has happened here at school over the last year would be more than enough to satisfy this question. What’s the next question?

What lie do you tell most often?

That Hogwarts is safe...

What’s the biggest surprise you’ve had?

Probably the news that I would be attending Hogwarts. I was expecting to be enrolled elsewhere. Although the arrival of the mosps at the Blossom Ball would probably be a close second.

What would your theme song be?

That’s… actually a rather difficult question. There’s a song called ‘Meltdown’.. I’m not actually sure who the artist is. Kagamine Rin, maybe? But there’s a music box version of it that I particularly like. I think that would probably be my theme song. Or maybe Imagine Dragons’ ‘Warriors’.

Who in your life brings you joy?

There isn’t, not really. My mother, I suppose? Don’t mistake me; there are those whose company I really enjoy, such as Morgan, Woodward, Marchonné, Holmwood and just about everyone from my various clubs, but I wouldn’t say they bring me joy. I think that’s more something that you have to make for yourself. If the question was ‘what’ instead of ‘who’, that would be easier. Oh! My Irish Hunter — she brings me joy. I’m not sure a horse counts for this though...

What’s your lucky number?

I don’t think I have one. I recently found out that Henry has a lucky quill, and I’ve known people who wear lucky socks or lucky hair clips. I don’t believe in luck, however. You make your own luck through your preparation and hard work. But that said, if I had to pick a number, I suppose I would say 23. It’s the number I most often wear while competing, and it’s the one I wear on my Quidditch uniform.

Besides your wand, what do you bring with you everywhere you go?

My brain. Something that too many people seem to have forgotten to unpack from their trunks.

What do you do to improve your mood when you are in a bad mood?

At Hogwarts, I take a visit to the pitch for some flying practice. At home, I go riding.

What are you best at?

What am I best at? As in which of my skills do I do best? Or what skill am I better at than anyone else? If you mean the first, then I suppose it would probably be riding, or keeping myself occupied. If it’s the second… I’d love to be able to someday say I’m the best Quidditch player or potioneer in the school, but right now, I don’t think I could say that I’m the best at anything in particular. Perhaps the best at being consistently competent in a wide variety of tasks?

Are you a clean or messy person?

I don’t mind getting my hands dirty when need be, but I am clean and organized overall. There are too many things to keep track of to not keep everything clearly organized.

Do you like Flying?

Very much so, actually. It’s more than just a sport for me as well. It’s the only time I feel truly liberated.

Are you more of an introvert or an extrovert?

An extrovert. There are times when I like to be alone and enjoy the solitude of my own thoughts, but that’s more for when I’m trying to accomplish something and avoid distraction. But I very much enjoy the company of others.

What would your dream home look like?

I’m really struggling to decide on this one. I keep wavering between a cozy cottage on the cliffs overlooking the ocean, and a victorian era manse— Oh! Like The Breakers! That would be my dream home. There must be at least two libraries in there, and a ballroom and music room. Enough space to host whomever I might wish to, plus plenty of acreage for stabling. And it’s on the cliffs overlooking the ocean. I’d forgotten about it. Plus, if I lived there, I could always build a little cottage on the outskirts. Yes, certainly the Breakers.

What’s your favorite dessert?

I am quite fond of lemon squares. I don’t think I could ever tire of them, actually.

What does love look like to you?

I suppose that depends a bit on what you mean. I’m told there’s a difference between loving someone and being in love with someone. I don’t know what the latter one is like, but there are those I do love. Like my mother. But I’m not really sure how to describe it, but I think that trust and respect are at the heart of it. And communication. And standing by to support each other during difficult times, not because you feel like you have to, but because you want to. I think that’s what love is.

What’s the silliest reason you’ve ever gotten into a fight with someone?

Because he was too stubborn to actually have a conversation and get over his pride long enough to allow his misinformed perspective to be challenged.

Whose articles are the most fun to edit?

You know I can’t answer this question. I edit Séverin’s articles, and if I answer anyone other than her, I’m going to get fired. Although I suppose I can hardly even say that I edit them; they’re rarely in need of any fixes.
*Editor's note: Suck up.

What’s your favorite comfort food?

There’s something that my grandmother makes on rare occasions called ‘Velveeta Strata’. It’s an old family recipe, but one that I always look forward to. It’s warm, light, creamy, and reminds me of home.

What did you think you would grow out of, but haven’t?

I thought I would grow out of the strange occurrences that happened growing up. The coincidental events that seemed to happen when I was upset. But it turns out that they were what marked me as a witch. Although, I suppose that is what we’re doing here, isn’t it? Gaining control of it all and growing out of those uncontrolled episodes.

How tall do you think you’re going to be?

I’m not sure. My mother is eight inches over five feet, so perhaps around there? I’ve never really put much thought into it before. Height doesn’t really matter when it comes to riding and flying.

Is there anyone you’d die for?

I don’t think anyone can truly answer this question until they’re faced with the moment where that decision has to be made. I’d like to think that I could die for my mother if it meant saving her life. But I also know that she would never forgive me if I did.

Why should people join the Headliner?

Why shouldn’t people join the Headliner, really? For anyone that wants to keep up-to-date with what’s going on around the castle or with news of any sort, it’s a good way to get the story ahead of time. Not to mention the opportunity to be part of the team that drives that news. Plus, it can be rather entertaining to listen to the stories passed around the office. And… I don’t really know how else to put it, but it is rather fulfilling to be able to work towards something that is actually circulated around the student body. I think it’s a good experience for anyone.

Reducio

What would your perfect vacation look like?

I’ve always wanted to go back-packing across Europe. It would be me, a couple of really close friends, a general idea of what to do, and a hunger for adventure. Six months of just going where our whims take us, taking in the tourist sights, but also exploring for the hidden gems and interacting with locals for something uniquely memorable.

What habit do you wish you could start?

Actually keeping a normal sleep-wake cycle would be nice, lol. But since that’s out of the question due to work, I really want to get into the habit of weekly cooking sessions to freeze pre-made healthy meals.

What was the best year of your life so far?

Honestly, I think I’d have to say my last year of Highschool. Times were so much simpler back then.

How do you calm yourself down when you are angry?

Is a good cry sesh a viable answer? No? Breathing and mindfulness exercises to still the mind and allow myself to take a mental step back to analyze the situation from a more third-party objective perspective.

When was the last time you climbed a tree, just for fun?

That… is a great question. Not recently enough, I can tell you that. Probably a couple years ago. I always liked climbing trees, though. I was one of those tropey types that would lounge on a branch reading a book. OH! Actually I remember! And I was right. It was a couple summers ago — I climbed one of the trees in my mother’s backyard in order to take down party decorations that had gotten stuck.

How do you relax?

A glass of wine, some popcorn, and a keyboard. Sometimes that might involve writing, but that’s usually when inspired to be productive. To unwind, I usually play games or read a webcomic or something. When the weather permits, I also like to lay in the hammock and read a book. Still with a glass of wine.

What popular TV show or movie do you refuse to watch?

Uh.. Naruto. I don’t know why.

What would be your ideal way to spend the weekend?

I work weekends, so I guess ideally, the shifts would be that perfect pace where I actually have time to get everything done and feel accomplished, but quick enough that the time doesn’t drag. On days off, though… ideal would be having that energy and inspiration to do a good cleaning, cooking, hanging with the dog, and ticking all my writing and planning goals. I know. Super exciting, right?

What do you want your epitaph to be?

I won’t ever have an epitaph, actually. I would like to be cremated, and my ashes to be spread alongside those of my father’s. But if we’re talking just a phrase to be known by, then.. I dunno.. “BRB”, or “GG” would be funny, haha. I never want to see “BRB” written on a tomb. More seriously, though, it would be: “And so the next chapter begins..”

What was the best book or series that you’ve ever read?

I mean…. I really like Harry Potter. I’m not sure I’d call it the best book series I’ve read, but it’s definitely the series that I’ve reread the most, so I think that has to count for something.

How often do you curse?

More than I care to admit. Especially while gaming when exacting my revenge on gankers or getting jumped by scary nightmare-inducing paranormal monsters. That said, ever since joining h.io, I’ve actually curbed it quite a bit. “Flippin’” is now a prominent word in my vernacular. Very scandalous.

How much time do you spend on the internet?

If h.io doesn’t count, then not tooooo much. You know… email. The occasional webcomic. A cat gif or few. But if internet includes h.io and spotify or discord use… then… basically 24/7. I wrote the answer to this question a while ago. I have since swapped from primarily PS4 use to primarily PC use. If I’m not at work, then I’m on my computer and therefore on the internet. So almost all the time unless I’m doing a timed focus writing hour, in which case I temporarily disable everything.

What amazing thing did you do that no one was around to see?

Bold of you to assume that I have done anything amazing even while people were around to see it, let alone when they weren’t. Honestly, I tend to have witnesses to anything neat I might have done. Or I’ll take a screenshot or a picture or something. The only place I can think of that people absolutely haven’t been around to see are in my dreams, where I have done some crazy aerial acrobatics with my goshawk wings all in the name of escaping death by my persistent aggressors.

On a scale of 1-10, how excited are you about life right now?

I’m going to go with a solid 5.5 of ambivalence. Although it may now be looking up with the move that is currently in progress.
*Editor's note: She moved! It was very exciting. Plot twists around every corner.

What movie scene choked you up the most?

Back in my freshman year, the ending of The Notebook had me ugly crying for a solid hour after it had finished. Not my proudest moment. More recently, I started crying to the live action Beauty and the Beast in the opening scene and didn’t stop for the whole movie. It’s one of my favourites, and it was just so beautifully done. But really, I’ve found that as I gain years, I cry more and more easily at movie scenes. I don’t even know why half the time.

What makes you laugh the most?

My cat, Piccolo, is just about 12 months old now. By cat standards, he’s an adult. In theory, he should be coordinated and competent. I don’t know why, but he has a habit of going from my desk to my dresser and just not putting his paws in the right places and just absolutely biffs it and then looks so insulted when he collects himself up from a sprawl. It cracks me up every time. And then I cuddle him to make him feel better.

What do you take for granted?

What I most take for granted is my mind. Apart from the times of insomnia when the haze layers on so heavily that I can’t think straight, it’s always been there and has always been enough to get me through my biggest challenges in life. I can confidently say I’ve relied on it. One of the things I fear most about growing old is its slow degradation.

What’s your favorite baked good?

This one is easy. Nothing beats a freshly baked loaf of sourdough bread as soon as it’s pulled from the oven. Cut the heel, slather it in homemade scape butter, and just melt. Heaven.

Who’s your favorite character in the Harry Potter series?

Snape. Hands down, 100%, Severus Snape. MVP. Press F for respect. Best character in the series (except perhaps Umbridge — I hate her, but she’s a great character).

If you were a ghost, what place would you most like to haunt?

I wavered between a few options, like a hospital because it would be interesting; an abandoned insane asylum because scaring the bejesus out of fear-seeking adventurers would be fun; or the stacks of a library to make sure it was maintained as the holy place of learning that it’s meant to be. But I have tossed those all aside in favour of a museum. A fun one. Like Science World. And preferably I’d be a poltergeist so that I could actually interact with the displays and continue to learn forever while also making the workers uncomfortable by messing with the displays in fun ways.

What’s something everyone should experience at least once?

This is a hard one for me to answer. Part of me wants to say something along the lines of “crippling poverty, loss of a loved one, unwanted unemployment, etc.” There are a lot of things that people take for granted that you can’t truly appreciate until you’ve experienced the extreme lows, and it’s very liberating when you can confidently look back and say “you know… I’m grateful for everything that I have”. But I would never wish any of those things on anyone. So I will instead say that everyone should experience travel and the marvel of a foreign culture.

What’s a game you played a lot in your childhood?

Four-square. I absolutely loved that game. And Pokémon, actually. For some reason, I was thinking strictly of non-digital games, but I played a lot of Pokémon Red back in the day when Gameboys had no colour and you could use a GameShark to cheat. Not that I cheated. I didn’t have one. I’d have used it to get Mew if I could have, though.

Would you rather write a letter to your younger self or your future self?

Younger self. There are a lot of things that I regret in life, and it would have been very helpful to have a letter of advice to help me better navigate those decisions and actions that I would rather have done differently.

Reducio

What’s your favorite hobby?

Reading, researching, and experimenting.

What’s one instrument you wish you could play?

The bass duduk.

Owl, cat, toad, or rat?

Owls are very practical, which is nice. However, I have a cat, and I love him dearly. The other options aren't bad, but my cat is right for me.

What’s your hidden talent?

I draw surprisingly frequently.

What’s your favorite time of day?

My favourite time of day is early morning or late at night. The world is peaceful then and it’s colder than it is during the rest of the day. In the morning, there's often a slight fog or mist or the sun is rising, and in the evening the stars are out.

How do you really feel about being in Slytherin?

It's good; I like it. It's nice to find some like-minded people, and while I feel that Ravenclaw would have been good as well, I'm very ambitious and determined. If I want something, I won't let anything get in my way.

What has been the best period of your life so far?

I'd say my first year here at Hogwarts was the best period of my life so far. Maybe the middle of second year.

When do you feel most out of place?

When none of my friends are around and I'm surrounded by loud people who don't care about learning.

What’s the most essential part of a friendship?

Trust and loyalty. You have to know that a friend has your back and will never betray you.

Which professor would make the best replacement Headmaster?

Professor Jensen. She's my Head of House and I trust her to be more than capable at whatever she does.

Do you like avocados?

Why? Is this really what you've been doing instead of turning your articles in on time? Gosh, Ami.
*Editor's note: For the record, I turn my articles in on time!

Is your dorm very personalized?

The arrangement of the area of my dorm depends on my mood at the time. I like things to be tidy and in place, and I'm not particularly sentimental, so, no, it's not normally covered in posters and the like. I keep some bits and bobs around, though, on my bedside table or in my drawers.

What do you care least about?

The thoughts and opinions of those who cross me.

Do you know what you want to do after you graduate Hogwarts?

Not really. There's still a long way to go before I have to decide that, and I'll probably change a lot in that time.

What were some of the turning points in your life?

Without getting too personal, which I'd rather not do, some of the turning points in my life have been finding out about the house of Slytherin, coming to Hogwarts, every time I met one of my close friends, and becoming a prefect. Unfortunately, the spider attack on the Slytherin common room was also a turning point for me.

What’s your favorite thing to do outdoors?

I'm fond of climbing trees. Sitting outdoors and sketching the scenery is also nice.

What took you way too long to figure out?

How to answer this question.

How do you define beauty?

Passion and freedom are beautiful.

Would you kiss me for 20 galleons?

I don't give away my kisses for money. Why? Do you want to kiss me? How do you even come up with these questions?

What’s your biggest fear?

I'm not going to tell the entire school. What's yours?
*Editor's note: This interview isn't supposed to go two ways!

What do you want to be remembered for?

I want to be remembered for my achievements made using my intelligence.

What do you like most about yourself?

I like that I persevere and will stop at nothing to reach my goals, and that I enjoy researching.

What’s something you can’t do?

I probably couldn't beat you at arm wrestling.

What is one goal you’re determined to achieve in your lifetime?

I want to learn as much as humanly possible and become someone important who is remembered for centuries afterwards.

Would you want to become an animagus?

Sure. I know it's a difficult process, and I'd have to decide for certain closer to the time because there are a lot of risks, but I'm passionate about Transfiguration and it could offer a new perspective on life and allow me to use skills that I might not normally have access to.

Who do you turn to when you’re sad?

My cat, Apollo. He doesn't care about the silly problems of humans. If you're looking for a person, I suppose I turn to my friend Margo. She always knows how to cheer me up.

What’s the first shop you’d go to in Hogsmeade?

Honeydukes, probably. I'd have to see what all of the fuss is about before going to check out the other shops.

Who are you jealous of?

All those people not being interviewed right now?

What’s your favorite season?

Each season has its merits. Maybe autumn or the start of winter.

When’s your birthday?

It's in June, why? Are you planning to make me a birthday cake?
*Editor's note: Alexx, do we have the budget for a cake...?

What alterations would you make to our school uniforms?

I'd make the robes easier to get in and out of. They don't open and close, which makes it impractical in case we need to quickly get rid of them.

How do you define misery?

I believe the dictionary can answer that. If you don't have access to one, I can find one for you.

When have you felt the most nervous?

I felt the most nervous when disaster struck in the common room and at the most recent Blossom Ball. It wasn't exactly nerves, more like plain fear and regret, but that counts, right…?

Were you named after anyone?

No? I wouldn't know. That's not something I've asked my parents.

Do you like your handwriting?

Yes. It's fine; I can jot things down quickly enough so it serves its purpose.

What’s your biggest weakness?

As if I'd tell you.

What’s your favorite club that you’ve joined?

The Headliner, obviously.

What’s your pet peeve?

People asking pointless questions like this one?

How do you start your day?

Generally with Apollo trying to climb on my pillow and staring at me with a look of offense when I shove him off of my head. After that, I get up and get dressed, then go on my morning patrols.

What’s your favorite snack?

Will you buy me one if I say what it is?

What do you miss most about Hogwarts when you’re at home?

My friends. I'm fond of the castle as well, mainly the library. The easy access to any relevant information that I might want to be researching is something I always appreciate.

Tea or coffee?

Tea. I don't really drink either of them, but I've had tea a little more frequently.

Which house do you root for when you’re not playing Quidditch on the field?

I have a couple of friends on the Gryffindor team, but they didn't join until recently. I have a friend on the Hufflepuff team as well, but I find myself mostly rooting for Ravenclaw. Of course, I'd prefer if they balanced each other out and there wasn't just one that was victorious all the time, because then that would have given Slytherin a better chance at winning the championship.

What’s a secret about the Headliner team that the general public doesn’t know?

It wouldn't be a secret if I told everyone, would it? I'm not one of the reporters who gathers and shares gossip similar to this.

What magical language would you want to learn?

Any of them. It'd be cool to understand Parseltongue, even if I couldn't speak it.

What singular questions would you want to know the answer to?

Why do you care about the answer to that question?

What do you take for granted?

I come from a pure-blood family, so, truthfully, I sometimes forget that not everyone has easy access to as many resources and as much money as they need.

What’s your worst subject?

I'd like to think that I'm not bad at any of the subjects, but Herbology is probably my weakest.

What’s the best part of being on the Headliner?

There's a wide range of people to learn how to work with. Some of them are funny and the research and investigations that the reporters do is always interesting to see.

Who at Hogwarts, professor or student, past or present, would you want to write an article on?

I'm obviously not one of the writers for the Headliner, but I guess I'd say Professor Lian. I really like her classes, and she's a fun professor.

Reducio

What are three interesting facts about you?

Interesting is very subjective. I love programming and anything to do with most technology. I participated in a couple of small-scale robotics competitions when I was in high school and middle school, and almost won one of them. I try to be constantly learning—my current topics of exploration are mostly to do with foreign languages and different genres of music.

What was the best compliment you’ve received?

One that acknowledged my hard work and strengths and made me feel appreciated. It highlighted the things I like best about myself and came from a person that I appreciate/like as well.

What’s the best thing you got from your parents?

My dad and I share a love of learning, and I think I got that from him. I was at least encouraged by him. He always reads articles on the Internet and a wide range of fascinating books, coming back with random trivia information and cool facts, or new discoveries that are being made in the world today.

What have you created that you are most proud of?

I'm proud of the friendships I've created with my close friends. Apart from that, I was very proud of the robot I made almost entirely by myself in ninth grade that nearly won me a competition.

When people look at you, what do you think they see or think?

I don't waste time wondering what they see. They either understand what I'm really like or they don't.

If life is a game like some people say, what are some of the rules?

Oxygen is necessary and you should do what you must to survive/succeed. You can do whatever you want, but everything has a consequence and you can never predict all that will happen.

What keeps you up at night?

My thoughts never quiet down. Any topic could keep me awake. I get sidetracked frequently and research instead of sleeping.

What lie do you tell most often?

“I might be wrong.”
*Editor's note: Damn. Cold-blooded.

What’s your Hogwarts house?

Ravenclaw or Slytherin… they're about equal for me. Perhaps a mix, but I'd probably say Ravenclaw.

What is the meaning of a good life?

It would be fulfilling. For me, that would mean learning a lot and being successful, particularly professionally.

What’s your favorite article of clothing you own?

I don't really have a favourite, it's clothing… I suppose I like some of my shirts a lot—a red, patterned one and a light blue button up.

What is true friendship?

Mutual trust and shared good memories, someone who makes you feel good and vice versa. Being able to unabashedly be yourself around them.

What did you think you would grow out of, but haven’t?

I thought that when I had the freedom to stay up late and sleep in, I would want to, but I've found that I actually prefer going to sleep early and waking up early.

Your best friend lied to you about something trivial. What do you do?

Talk to her about it and how it makes me feel, and then forgive her. We've been friends for too long to let something like that ruin the friendship.

What’s the hardest you’ve worked for something?

As a child, I worked very hard to get into certain schools. When I was 10 and 11, I worked hard to get into what was my dream school at the time and succeeded, although I had to move away before I got a chance to go. When I was 13, I did a similar thing but ended up going to the local high school instead of one of the private schools I got into.

Who, besides your parents, taught you the most about life?

My rival and one of my teachers from sophomore year (who was like a mentor to me).

How much personal space do you need to be comfortable?

Quite a lot. I don't like being physically close to people unless they are very good friends of mine, and even then it's touch-and-go.

What are you most grateful for?

Books and the ability to use the Internet to research. My friends and their acceptance of me.

Call or text?

Text, I suppose.

What smells make you happy?

Freshly-baked goods, my favourite meals, the smell right after it rains, and cold morning air (especially in the summer).

On average, how many times a day do you look in the mirror?

Twice—once in the morning so that I can put my contacts in and comb my hair, and once in the evening so I can take my contacts out again.

Who makes you laugh more than anyone?

More than anyone? That's hard to say. I guess my best friends in general, since I talk to them the most.

What is the most beautiful thing in the world?

You, the reader. (Also you, Ami.)
*Editor's note: Aw shucks, you shouldn't've...

Reducio

On a scale of 1-10, how excited are you about life right now?

I’d love to say 10, because that’s usually it, but right now I’ll have to disappoint you with a five or so. But I’m not worried! I’ll get back to 10 in no time. It’s always only a few chocolate frogs away.

How do you usually start your day?

I have to force myself out of bed most days, believe it or not... Or my cat does. I hardly remember anything that happens before 8.30, which is partly why I can’t really tell you what I have for breakfast. Except for tea, of course, but that’s a given.

If there was one person on the team who you would spend the rest of your life with, who would it be and why?

I really do like all of them... but I suppose I can’t really say anyone but Ami, can I? Not honestly, anyway. She’s my best friend. We don’t always understand each other, and she can be… well, Ami- but it doesn’t matter. Because we’re both there anyway. She’s one of my favourite people.

She’s also the author of all these questions and I don’t think I’m wrong to suspect there’ll be more of them along this theme.
*Editor's note: .... guilty as charged.

Who on the Headliner team is a secret Gryffindor?

Oh that’d be Ami, you, again. I don’t think I know anyone bolder... She’s loyal too, of course, and all that stuff- but at some point I can’t help but think our dear hat made a little mistake… People sometimes say that about me, too, but that’s of course preposterous.

What’s your favorite color?

I really like blue! Light, coral blue like in the sky or a piece of pretty fabric.

Do you like surprises?

Only nice ones. And they’d have to be quite good, because I don’t like being left out of the loop or out of control. I like to know what’s going on, even if I don’t always understand.

What are three things you can’t live without?

1. Lady Madeleine
2. Family
3. Waistcoats

What’s your biggest fear?

Oh. Uhm. Ain’t that a question! I suppose, in all its convenient vagueness, I don’t like the idea of seeing people I love changing for the worse. Or to recognise it in myself. I’m scared either them or I will lose ourselves to something... Like anger. I’m no good with anger.

Dream country to visit?

I’m not so sure if it has anything to do with the country itself, but my brother always goes on about how great it is to play on home ground in Estonia. We all want to go someday, and watch him. Haven’t been able to, so far, because we don’t want to leave without my mother (though she insists we should).

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

My mother told me once that if you ever find beauty in anything, then you shouldn’t wait for others to agree with you. I know what that meant in her case, and I still think about it... But I also know that she doesn’t always follow that rule herself.

How do you define beauty?

Can’t it be a million things! The most beautiful place I know is Ballintoy. The most beautiful song I know I don’t even remember the name of. Beauty is something that makes you feel calm, or feel safe, because it’s almost perfect.

Coffee or tea?

I didn’t use to like either, but now it’s definitely tea. Every day of the week. At home I drink Namberrie, which we do (especially dad and I), to tease my mother- She hates it. Only drinks unreasonably expensive and English stuff that you can’t even buy in bags. It doesn’t taste as nice.

Pumpkin juice or butterbeer?

It depends, summer or winter? I prefer the feeling of a warm tankard, though.

Best compliment you’ve ever received?

I don’t remember ever receiving that many... A girl once called me “perfectly lovely”! And though I’m not quite sure what she meant (or whether she was really aware of what she was saying) I took it as a compliment all the same. She’s always been a bit strange.

What’s one advice you’d give your first-year self?

I’d probably tell him to relax, if only a little bit… Between you and I, he’s got it quite easy.

What’s the best thing that’s happening to you this year?

2020? Well… I suppose I’m happy I’ll be spending some time at the camp this summer! I’ve never stayed at Hogwarts before, not through the summer, and though of course it takes place in London this year- I think I’m excited to experience what our school is like… well… without the school bit.

What’s a habit you wish you could break?

I don’t like the way I go quiet when I actually have things to say. It makes me feel really weak, or dumb.

What does creativity mean to you?

To me, creativity is the ability to let your imagination take charge, even when there’s already a set way to do things. However small or seemingly insignificant. It’s lovely to see that in others.

What’s your favorite dessert?

My favourite dessert is the madeleine cake, those french little almond cakes that look like shells? We always had them for my birthday at home, in the morning (which is about as scandalous my mother will get when it comes to the culinary, mind you…). Now they’re sent to me every year by owl!

How do you like to spend rainy days?

Well, not in the rain. I used to love being outside when it was pouring down, but now I’m not so keen anymore. I don’t like being wet. Or muddy. I’d rather stay inside, maybe play a game with a friend or two until I can go outside again.

What’s your worst class right now?

I’m really no good with History of Magic. It’s so much reading, and I don’t like that. It’s just one thing after another, isn’t it? History doesn’t seem to ever end.

What do you think your Patronus will be?

I’ve always wondered whether it could be some kind of bear… a friendly-looking one, of course! I think my father’s is a brown bear. Or it was a big dog…

I do love the hares that live in the plains by my grandparents’ house, too. There’s a whole family of them, always been there! I wouldn’t be unhappy to cast one of them, either.

(My brother says it’ll be an earthworm, but he’s just mad he still can’t cast one).

Favorite baked good?

Madeleine cakes! Again!

What’s something you’ve learned the hard way?

We’ve all got different ways of protecting ourselves, and each other.

What’s your biggest strength?

I can bring myself to do a lot of good even though I don’t want to, or I don’t think someone deserves it.

What’s your biggest weakness?

Some might say that, in comparison to my otherwise quite …mellow personality, I have disproportionately passionate responses to remarks about my family. Whichever part of it.

What’s one goal you’re determined to achieve in your lifetime?

There are some people I have yet to see smile.

What do you first notice about someone when you meet them?

Whether or not they seem to be in a good mood. Though I have sadly been known to ignore it, talking to people who are mad or want to be left alone… I can’t help that! If they’re happy then I want to share that, and if they’re not then I want to cheer them up.

Favorite type of flower?

Probably orchids. We have a lot of them around the apartment, since they’re my mother’s favourite. The purple ones in our kitchen bloom around my birthday, and I think that’s when she got them.

Favorite holiday?

Christmas! What else? It’s really no competition in my case. If you’re with the right people it can just be the most magical time, and that’s saying a lot between the two of us. But I suppose, when you’re not, then there’s really no point...

What makes you smile the most?

My two brothers have a whole bunch of inside jokes that they came up with when they were younger. I don’t understand a single one of them myself, but the way they can make each other laugh, hard, when they really want to- is hilarious. I wish it happened more often.

Favorite thing in the world?

Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens.

If you had to live in one place for the rest of your life, where would it be?

I know it’s normal for us to say that Hogwarts feels like a home, and it does, but it’s just not the kind of home I could stay in forever. Sorry Professors. I suppose it’d then be a race between London and Ballintoy… And though London continues to excite me, and has been an amazing home my whole life: everybody I know is more happy on the island than they are in England.

Is that simply because it’s not our home? Maybe. But it’s still a feeling I’d be happy to keep.

What’s one thing you miss about Hogwarts when you’re at home?

Probably, and I know this sounds like a cliché, all the students. Mostly my friends, of course, but I honestly miss just the sound of hundreds of people making their way from corridor to corridor... I’ve been in some very quiet castles in my life and I don’t prefer them one bit.

What about something you miss about home when you’re at Hogwarts?

Who’s your favorite sibling?

You know you can’t ask me that, Ami, it’s not a fair question.

Owl, cat, or toad?’

You’re really not giving owl or toad a fair chance here, are you? They’re both lovely animals, though... I’ve only really met one toad but he was amazing.

If you could choose a different name, what would it be?

I know that my mother wanted to name me Thomas, at first. It was my grandfather’s name, and I’ve often been told that the two of them were close before his passing.

I also know that the reason why I wasn’t named that (even though it would’ve made sense for his eldest child to name her son after him, since it’s almost a tradition in our family) wasn’t a very pleasant one.

If it hadn’t been such a sensitive thing, then I would’ve wanted to be called Thomas. She didn’t even dare make it my middle name.

Would you rather always be too hot or too cold?

Too hot. Too cold is terrible. Awful.

Early bird or night owl?

Night owl! What’s most beautiful about the night is often most horrendous about the morning… Alan would know. He’s my personal alarm clock, that maniac. Wakes up before six. Before six!

Who’s your favorite professor?

I like Professor Pendrast. She teaches one of my favourite subjects, and is of course my Head of House! Quite sombre, but what’s the fault in that? Some of the best people in the world are sombre. Like… Well, like Professor Pendrast!

Do you wash your hands in cold water or hot water?

Hot water. I’m not a masochist.

How do you really feel about being in Gryffindor?

I- it’s perfectly fine! Really, people keep assuming I don’t belong here. But I do! I’ve done a ton of brave things. And though I realise this isn’t the most important quality; if I’m not chivalrous then I’m not sure if I’m anything at all.

It might not have been what some in my family expected of me- but what better way of exceeding someone’s expectations, than by first breaking them?

If you could be sorted into another house, which one would you choose?

Keeping at the theme here, are we? My family (by which I mean the Alexanders, since the other side didn’t go to Hogwarts) has always kept a clean record of Slytherins and Ravenclaws. So my inner diplomat would probably feel at peace with either of the two…

In reality, I think I’d fit pretty well in Hufflepuff. The students I know from that house are all very kind, and some of them are undeniably my favourites.

What’s your third favorite subject at Hogwarts?

…Third? Well. I always say my favourite is Charms, and then it’s Defence Against the Dark Arts. I haven’t thought much of what the third would be, but since I still prefer to use my wand I’m going to go with Transfiguration, however impossible it might feel sometimes.

Do you wear deodorant?

Of course I do! But I won’t tell you which one because you always start laughing. Just because the name of the brand is in French doesn’t mean it’s for women, Ami.

There’s nothing gendered about roses.

What’s your favorite thing about your best friend?

I was right to believe your questions would be angled, wasn’t I? Well. My “best friend” is among the absolute funniest and warmest people I know. She somehow manages not to take herself too seriously, whilst still regarding her friendships and values with the strongest integrity I’ve ever come across.

She’s quite unlike me, in the end, and I like that about her.

What’s your favorite quidditch team?

The Ballycastle Bats! It’s my family’s favourite team. Dad’s completely obsessed with them, and Ben is too... Whenever they play a game we turn the radio up, and no one is allowed to make a noise until it’s over.

What’s the weirdest skill you’ve ever learned?

Tap dancing. Grandfather. I look ridiculous so no, I won’t show you.

What’s your favorite part of being on the Headliner team?

...That I don’t have to write any articles. I’m not a man of few words, most people know, but when it comes to writing… well, it takes you long enough that you have to believe that you’ve actually got something interesting to say. When I talk I don’t have time for that.

Reducio

Describe yourself in a hashtag.

#WIP

If your life was a musical, what would the title be?

“A Redundancy of Epic Proportions”

Music by Claude-Michel Schönberg, text by a tired five-year-old who just learned how to rhyme. /hat, that kind of stuff.

Who do you want to write your obituary?

Do I look like someone who knows what an obituary is?

What’s your current TV obsession?

I’m really not watching any TV at the moment. In fact, all of the things I used to watch or stream have been cast aside to accommodate the disproportional amount of Critical Role content I instead consume in a day...

What 3 people, living or dead, would you like to have dinner with?

Gordon Ramsey, to hate the food, the head chef of the restaurant we’re eating at, and a boxing commentator to guide me through the fight that will inevitably ensue.

What’s your go-to for a good laugh?

Well I would text you or Marla but the chances of either of you replying within 400 hours are minimal at best… Listening to music and daydreaming about ridiculous things often works.
*Editor's note: You've got to admit, I've gotten much better with timely replies.

How do you cope with school work, headliner work, and still have a life?

A what?

If you could make a documentary about anything, what would it be?

The cult scene through the ages, maybe? Movies, music, literature… Just everything outrageous.

If you could grab lunch with someone from the past, who would it be?

Somebody chill? I bet Jesus would like spring rolls.

What’s the weirdest word in the English language?

Language. Its end should be spelled like it is in sandwich. Langwich.

If you had one superpower, what would it be?

I’d love to have the power of God and anime on my side.

Who was the last person to text you?

Right before this Alexx sent me a hockey meme and I replied with “lol” even though I didn’t understand it.

Last book you read?

While working on my summer job, which was in a library, I read a lot during my breaks. Went through a couple of Alan Bennett works, not sure which one was last. The Uncommon Reader? These are the first books I've finished in a long time.

What’s a book from your childhood that positively shaped you?

Well there’s childhood childhood, and then there’s the young adult novels. When I was little, I adored the times my mother would read us Karlson-on-the-roof (I believe that’s the English title?) by Astrid Lindgren before bed. I just loved that silly kind of humor, and I still do.

When I got older (9 or 10) I submerged myself in Cornelia Funke’s Inkheart world… It inspired a great love for writing in me, since it was all about storytelling. Truth is, I still don’t know how that trilogy ends! I’d remembered how heartbroken I’d gotten when I ran out of Harry Potter books, and so decided not to ever finish the last one.

All modesty aside, what are you better at than 90% of people?

I’m very good at avoiding questions that would in any way challenge my instinct to never talk myself up unironically.

What’s the strangest phone conversation you’ve ever had?

Got a call from a nationalist party once, wanting to discuss Sweden’s immigration policies with me whilst I was trying to watch a r.i.p. vine compilation on my phone. Xenophobia really kills your vibe.

What would make an excellent new ice cream flavor?

I’m definitely not bold enough to assume that Twix ice cream isn’t already a thing (it must be), but it’s not something that I’ve ever had or seen and it breaks my heart a little bit.

How much personal space do you need to be comfortable?

None. Come closer.

What’s your favorite smell?

Probably the smell in the kitchen when my grandmother is cooking, which would be of a mix of pancakes, bacon, meatballs, sausages, fries, sauces, potatoes and steamed vegetables. Power meal.

What says the most about a person?

How quick they are to judge another? If they do it at the speed of light, then I always fear they’re either convinced that they’re perfect themselves (which no one is), or that they are trying to ignore the fact that they’re not...

If they’re slow to judge, on the other hand, I’m more trusting of their own principles. Because since they are confident in their values themselves, they don’t seem to need to put anybody else down.

Damnit. I judge people fast by how fast they judge people, don’t I?

What’s the worst advice someone has given you?

“You deserve better” What’s better than what I want? I know me.

If you were an Olympic athlete, what would your event be?

Didn’t they use to have competitive painting? If not, then I’d probably be stuck with some boring snow stuff. Except I am quite alright with both shot put and the high jump… Nothing terrifies me more than hurdles.

What would your perfect meal be?

Me, cause I’m a snack.

Reducio

What’s your proudest moment?

When the wildest stallion I have ever met, Manticore, came to trust me enough to let me ride him. I grew up on a ranch raising many kinds of animals, but I have never met such a proud and fierce creature as him.

If your childhood had a smell, what would it be?

The damp mineral smell of a cavern.

What’s your favorite food?

Chicken Tikka Masala. It helps me pretend I am travelling around the world.

What do you wish you knew at the beginning of the year?

If I could go back and tell myself one thing back then, I would say that “it will work out here” and not to worry so much. For a long time I was afraid I would be kicked out for various reasons, that I would not make friends, and that I would never fit in. However, I am finding that certain people make this a good place for me to be and that it is okay to call Hogwarts home.

Are you more of an indoors or outdoors person?

Outdoors. I grew up herding animals across the vast countryside and I have a bit of claustrophobia when it comes to confined spaces.

Do you like flying?

When I first came to Hogwarts I did not really know a person could fly without an expensive machine, and for my first month I was not captivated by the concept of quidditch. However, that was before I saw the majesty and blinding speed of a seeker in pursuit of the snitch. From that moment on I kept thinking about how incredible it would be to be able to fly free, up high, away from all the walls and mundane problems of the world below… To be able to go fast, so fast, and with such a precise attunement to the environment as you cut through the air… laser-focused on the one simple thing you need to obtain. Now I find the whole thing captivating. I can’t understand how I didn’t see how beautiful it was before.

What’s the silliest fear you have?

I am afraid the walls will close in on me and that I will not be able to escape.

What gives your life meaning?

Becoming wiser and stronger, exploring and feeling the sensations of the world around me, and developing deeper relationships with the people I love.

What do you not care about?

I have a hard time caring about etiquette. If I am generally thoughtful and not mean to people, why should I have to be subjected to rules of etiquette? It seems like such a waste of time and it is controlling for no good reason.

What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?

Sorry to be repetitive, but it was the same as my proudest moment. The fact that a huge, powerful horse would trust me and be interested enough in me to let me ride him is the best compliment I have ever received.

Do you like to cook?

I like to cook small treats on special occasions, especially when I can make something by living off the land. A special favorite is fire-roasted acorns on a cold night while camping.

What does your name mean?

My whole name is Scottish Gaelic. “Aida” means “she who returns.” My mother’s surname is Mòrsgor-Ama while my father’s is Ellwood. The Ellwood family name (pronounced in Scotland as “Ell-ott”) is a variant of “Elliot.” This family is famous for being a border reiver clan, and my father’s ancestors came from the Hermitage Castle settlement. Etymologically “Ellwood” comes from either the Old English "Aelfweald" (literally “elf rule”) or it could derive from Old English’s “Ellern wudu” meaning “elder wood.” Whichever it was appears lost to history. As for “Mòrsgor-Ama,” this is a surname meaning “time rift,” which is probably tied to my mother’s homeland (the Glenfinnan area) that has a lot of spooky stories about time magic tied to it.

What are you always game for?

Anything having to do with creatures. Well, anything that is not mean anyway. If there is a beast, magical or otherwise, I want to be there… no matter how small or common. No matter how dangerous. Call me over, please.
*Editor's note: Why couldn't Aida have been here during the pygmy puff infestation last year...?

What’s something you aspire to be?

I want to become a special kind of magizoologist that gets magical creatures out of abusive and unhealthy situations, relocating them to natural environments where they can be safer. I would also like to play some role in preserving habitats for magical creatures so that they have some place to go after unfortunate run-ins with wizardkind or muggles.

What’s something you’ve had to unlearn?

It feels like I have been caught in a time loop of learning and unlearning how to trust people. Just when someone makes me lose faith in humanity, I meet someone who raises me back up and gives me hope again.

Do you want kids?

That would be entirely dependent on if I can find a partner who would make possible the kind of family that I would want for children… and it may be that I have unrealistically high standards that I will not relent on.

What’s your morning ritual?

As soon as I wake up I go for a run across the campus, always stopping at certain places on the grounds and by the lake. Then I shower and get my books and equipment together for those early morning classes.

Who’s someone you admire?

I didn’t know him for very long but I admired Professor Morfran Griffith. As for people I have never actually met, I admire Newt Scamander and a long list of other magizoologists. I also have a weakness for ancient wartime tacticians such as Sun Tzu and Miyamoto Musashi. They had several such books in my local library growing up.

How do you manage stress?

I either go for a run or I close my eyes and pretend I’m in my secret cave, all alone in the dark.

If you made a documentary, what would it be about?

Conflicts between wizardkind and beasts throughout time.

Why did you apply for the Headliner?

I wanted to be a part of history writing itself.

When are you happiest?

When I feel the love of others and feel confident in the future.

What do you do in your free time?

I like to help out at Care of Magical Creatures, I joined the R.O.A.M. program and … well… these days I do a lot of running. Maybe this summer I’ll start a fencing club, because who doesn’t like a good sword fight?

What hurts your feelings?

Deceit, manipulation, and attempts to control others hurt my feelings more than anything else.

How would you describe yourself to someone who’s never met you?

Someone told me once that I’m intense. I don’t really know what that means, but I’ll go with that.

What would be the best city to live in?

What, a city? Well, if it has to be a city, then I suppose the best kind would be an ancient one full of libraries with magical tomes and legendary mysteries just waiting to be discovered.

Who do you have a hard time taking seriously?

Olphie Bercegeay. Just when I’m beginning to learn something she does something that just cracks me up.

Do loud noises bother you?

Yes. I grew up in the quiet countryside and so cities tend to be terribly noisy in my opinion. As for momentary, infrequent loud noises, I can deal with them but like any animal I don’t enjoy having to hear them. You could also say my hearing is a bit on the sensitive side, especially when I close my eyes.

How do you calm yourself down when you get angry?

I remember the promises I made… those promises about holding it together so that I can take care of others.

What’s your happy place?

My “secret base” is my happy place– though I guess it is not very secret anymore if it is in the Headliner! This place is a large cavern near where I grew up, tucked away in the mountains and practically only accessible by horseback. I often close my eyes and imagine that I am there when I am overcome by claustrophobia. The darkness makes me feel like the walls are not there somehow. At that point it becomes like an embrace.

Do you like artichokes?

Yeah, they’re fine. Unlike those heartless other vegetables out there...

Is having a big ego good or bad?

Having a big ego is bad when it makes your reach exceed your grasp. The rest of the time it’s pretty funny though.

What risks are worth taking?

The risks that are worth taking are those that your heart believes in so much that, no matter the outcome, you will be able to say to yourself you really thought it was right. It’s when you don’t know what’s right that you are most at risk of making a decision you will hate later. Those situations are the hardest, but at some point all you can do (after thinking it through as best you can) is go with it.

What’s your favorite cupcake flavor?

I actually prefer honeyed bran muffins, very nicely browned with a huge crown… but if it has to be a cupcake, let’s go with elderberry with a lemon poppyseed base.

What’s your favorite shade of blue?

Blue that is so black you can only tell that it’s a rich blue in certain kinds of light.

What’s something that your friends wouldn’t believe was true about you?

Probably only one person knows this, but I really love to sing. I used to sing all day long while herding animals over the mountains. I liked to hear the sounds in different environments: bouncing off the walls of a cave or the cliff faces of a ravine, across a wide-open meadow, or deep in the thickest woods when the birds are just beginning to sing in the morning.

Are you a good liar?

Absolutely not, hahaha. I couldn’t even lie to a giant spider to save my own life.

What’s your biggest strength?

My biggest strength is probably also my biggest weakness: curiosity. I learn a lot and can grow from diverse challenges by being curious, but sometimes I get myself in over my head. Sometimes I drag other people into those situations, too, and when others are involved I have to be especially careful not to let my inquisitiveness get too dangerous.

Do you collect Chocolate Frog Cards?

Yes, I collect chocolate frog cards. I currently have 17 of them and so far my favorites are Gondoline Oliphant and Havelock Sweeting.

What do you strongly suspect, but have no proof of?

I strongly suspect that Headmaster Lear is alive somewhere, but I don’t have any proof of that.

Does beauty have a functional purpose?

As a student of magizoology I must admit thinking that beauty has a very pronounced functional purpose. On a basic biological level it signals health and good genetics, and on a more psychological level it creates an enjoyable meaning for things that are desirable.

Which professor are you most afraid of?

The professor I am the most afraid of is Elaine Pendrast. Is she not a specialist with a profound knowledge of the dark arts?

What do you hope you’ll grow out of?

I hope that I will grow out of my desire to run away from social problems and instead grow the courage to confront them. This year I have been trying to take on adversity for personal growth, but somewhere in me there is still a voice that tells me that I should not care and that I should get away from conflict and people who intimidate me.

What do you judge people for that you probably shouldn’t?

I judge people for intelligence more often than I should. People have all kinds of qualities that are interesting or otherwise good about them which I should be taking more interest in.

How (in)decisive are you?

I’m not actually very indecisive. I usually know what I want, and if I don’t know then I make it a point to obsess over the situation until I have a conclusion.

Would you want to become an Animagus?

Absolutely. I have lamented being a simple human since the day I was born. If I could be closer to creatures psychologically or otherwise by becoming an animagus, I would sign up for that the instant it was offered.

What game do you always lose?

I always lose political games for influence, especially those based on manipulation and social engineering. I don’t even want to play them, but I lose them when they are imposed on me. Besides, I’m not even interested in being popular for its own sake.

Who inspires you to be better?

My friends Alexander, Dealla, and Sylvain inspire me to become better. Also, beasties inspire me to improve, not just because I need to get stronger in order to help those who are in need, but also because they all have such diverse strengths themselves. Lastly, Griffith’s memory still inspires me to be better.

Do you like classical music?

Unfortunately I’m not very knowledgeable about it, but I did hear Valentin Schnell play once and it was absolutely inspiring. That music made me feel like I was flying at times, and at others I felt as if I could transform into any creature I wanted… So I guess I do like classical music, at least on piano, from what little I’ve heard!

How do you define success?

I define success as having worked at something and then having the outcome become satisfying. This means that the outcome does not need to be exactly as you expected, so long as you are happy with the results in the end.

Reducio

Do you wear perfume?

Yes. In fact I make perfumes which I sell on online and at small markets. I especially like all-natural perfumes, and I hugely enjoy talking about the chemistry behind perfumery.

Pineapple on pizza, yes or no?

Sure, why not. I don’t usually order this, but I would enjoy it if it were given to me.

Do you wash your hands in hot or cold water?

Cold. Sure, it’s an inferior solvent when it’s cold but I just can’t be bothered to wait for the hot water to come down the pipes. Even when there is instant hot water, this habit is fully ingrained and I don’t mind it. Though sometimes a frigid river can be a bit intimidatingly cold during a wash.

What’s the best way to destress?

A night of casual fencing surrounded by your best friends with a campfire, s’mores, and mass cuddling under the stars.

What’s your best example of “easy come, easy go”?

I’m a perfectionist at a lot of things so this is a hard question. I guess the thing I care least about personally is cooking for myself. If it’s got the right nutrition and it is efficient, I will cook it, but I never go far out of my way to cook an elaborate meal for myself. I don’t really bake for pleasure either. On occasion I will make some extremely elaborate dish or baked goods for a friend, but this is not my norm. I have too much to worry about to bother with cooking amazing food all the time. As a result, whether a dish I made is great or isn’t very good, I would consider it “easy come, easy go” and not give it much thought in the future. I know how to cook, and I cook well… but it just takes too much time to invest much time into the fancy stuff.

What are you looking forward to?

I am looking forward to 1) developing my Durmstrang iNPC (Valentin “Der Niffler” Schnell), 2) a cordial match with Durmstrang vs. Hufflepuff, and 3) to seeing the next Ravenclaw quidditch game (and lending support in whatever way I can.)

What’s one of your guilty pleasures?

Ice cream. I can eat an entire pint in one sitting. Don’t tempt me.

Where’s the line between soup and cereal?

Cereal requires the liquid base to be milk of a rather basic variety (plain, chocolate, strawberry, or whatever) while a soup would have many other components in its base in addition to any milk it included. Additionally, the soup is likely to be salty while the cereal is likely to be either sweet or bland.

What’s your favorite month of the year, and why?

I love October. The weather starts to cool down and with the approach of Halloween, there is much celebration of fantastical things. Halloween is for me the best day of the year because it is when people allow themselves to role play whatever their imagination allows them to be. In general, flights of the imagination are better appreciated during October, at least where I am.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

I’m going to have to go with receiving a major science grant a few years ago for my project. I was very fortunate.

What’s your “back in my day, we…”?

Back in my day, the only way to binge watch anything was to rent a whole stack of VHS tapes at one time.

What’s something that’s better broken than whole?

An intimidating workload is better broken down than whole. The only way to deal with that kind of thing is in manageable chunks, if you ask me.

If you were a ghost, what places would you like to haunt?

Maybe a movie theater would be fun. People would be primed to be spooked there, and if I got bored of scaring people I could watch a movie. Otherwise, I would like to haunt some place where I could be helpful to people after death. Haunting a university might be nice for that reason, assuming some number of people would be receptive to such help. Maybe the best option would be to haunt an absolutely incredible wilderness full of endangered species and scare anyone who tried to destroy or degrade the land. Yeah, let’s go with that.

How useful would you be in a zombie apocalypse?

I would be of above-average usefulness. I have outdoors skills from many seasons of fieldwork in remote backcountry across the world. I know about the harvesting of wild foods in a variety of places as well as how to process them. I have had assorted self-defense trainings. I am a first responder and so have some basic medical skills. As a geographer I have above-average wilderness navigation skills. I’m a craftsman and good with my hands, I’m good at a lot of mechanical repairs, and I’m adaptable and stubborn as all hell… so I would be a versatile ally in a variety of situations.

What song always puts you in a good mood?

“Tummy” by the Radwimps.

What would you put inside a mental health first aid kit?

A music player. This has been the most faithful source of solace throughout my life and I don’t think that will ever stop.

Do you believe in luck? Why (not)?

I believe in probability and I believe in stochastic situations that are nearly impossible to predict the outcome of no matter what you do. If you just happen to win in a situation where you cannot reasonably predict the outcome, then I would call that luck.

What do people idealize, but really shouldn’t?

People idealize love at first sight, but they really shouldn’t do that because if you are to judge a person it should be based on a lot of things about them gained over a long time and in a variety of circumstances. Certainly feeling love at first sight is not wrong, but as the primary basis for a long-term relationship it is perilous.

What are you most grateful for?

That’s a hard question because there is so much for me to be grateful for. I guess most of the other things would not be possible if I didn’t have my life, though, so I suppose I am most grateful to be alive.

Is teaching a skill that can be taught?

Almost anything can be taught if the student wants to learn and if the teacher is good enough. I believe that pedagogy is a real discipline with things to offer interested learners, and while it is not perfect, there are definitely many practices that studying pedagogy can improve.

What’s something you like to do the old-fashioned way?

I like to draw with pencil and paper more than digitally. I don’t have a tablet, so maybe that’s why I never came to enjoy it, but I would rather illustrate something by hand and scan it in for digital modification instead of making everything in the computer from scratch.

Which body part do you wish you could detach and reattach at will? Why?

My eyeball. I would like to improve my observational powers, so it would be cool to stash my eyeball in a secret or inaccessible area where I could not otherwise put the rest of my body with ease. Besides, if I were to put a disembodied arm somewhere, it would not necessarily be able to sense its environment well enough to be very effective at a given task. (This all assumes detaching these body parts would magically still allow them to function normally.)

What makes someone a “good” person?

A good person is someone who is not overly egocentric, has compassion, wishes and strives for the well-being of their friends/family/allies, and in general tries to be of service to at least somebody (if not several people) outside of themselves.

Reducio

Fruity candies or chocolate?

Chocolate for sure. It makes you feel all fuzzy inside.

What does your name mean?

My name, Aurelia, comes from latin and means golden. My parents apparently thought it was fitting for me.

Do you like vegetables?

Some. Broccoli, tomatoes and carrots I don’t mind but then there are others that- Eww.

What’s your proudest moment?

First time riding a broom. The rush of air, the feeling of freedom and just feeling proud that you don’t suck.

Do you like flying?

No, I absolutely frickin love flying.

What’s the silliest fear you have?

Well… spiders kinda freak me out and fish too, I don’t know why.

Should people care more about doing the right thing, or doing things right?

Doing the right thing. Trust your gut, and if you helped someone just a tiny bit, you already accomplished something.

What gives your life meaning?

Life itself, I think. Just having the opportunity to be alive, to explore the world.

What do you not care about?

Grades. People stress about them too much. They are only letters to me.

What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?

My mother once told me that I had great athlete qualities, that meant a lot to me. Especially since she’s a quidditch player.

What are you always game for?

A nice prank. Not the stupid ones. Like an actual planned-through prank. Although any prank brings a good laugh.

Do you like to dance?

Yes, but more modern dance. Also, My grandparents (the same that gave me my middle names) insisted on teaching me some classic dances like the Waltz.

What’s something you’ve had to unlearn?

To trust people so willingly, there have been many times when I was younger that I was backstabbed by a “friend”.

Do you believe in love at first sight?

Yes and no. Yes because I know that it is possible to feel a certain connection to a person when you first meet them... but no, because at first sight you only look at the outside, and you have to get to know them more to actually fall in love.

What’s your favorite place that you’ve been to?

I think my favorite place was New York City, it’s very unique and full of awesome people, and there is just so much to do. Not to mention how good the pizza is if you know the right place....

What amazing adventures have you been on?

We once got lost in the countryside of England. No towns nearby, no busses no streets. We wanted to take a quick hike to a light tower but then kept going. Also, we didn’t bring any water, maps or food. It took us about 5 hours till we found a road. In the end we had to cross a cow field and let’s just say the cows were really into us… so my dad ended up running to a fence with the cows chasing him and distracted them while the rest of us got help from a farmer.

What are some obscure things that you are or were really into?

Not many people know that I like to sketch or paint in my free time, I guess people think it’s nerdy but it helps me take a break from the world.

What do you do to unwind?

I snuggle into some blankets and listen to some good music, that always helps.

If your childhood had a smell, what would it be?

A cool breeze? Is that a smell? Oh and probably banana bread.

What would be the best city to live in?

City? Hmm. I guess I would want to be in New York since that’s my favorite place but it’s not really that great to live in. I think living in Europe would be better, maybe somewhere close to the alps.

When do you feel most out of place?

At the library, all the bookworms are discussing their favorite books while I just stand there and nod. I end up running away most of the time.

What’s your favorite holiday?

I really like Christmas, but winter is a bit too cold for me so I think I prefer Halloween. It’s just the perfect season of pranks and dressing up. I kinda want to go as a bacon this year...

How do you hope you’ll change as a person in the future?

I obviously hope I become prettier and richer- just joking… kind of. Hm, I think I want to collect more knowledge, learn to enjoy reading books, and improve my art. Also, I hope to learn a thing or two about not interrupting a private conversation.

If you could make one rule that everyone had to follow, what would that rule be?

This is easy. BE KIND. How frickin hard is it to show a little kindness to people. Imagine how much the world would be different.

What’s your morning routine/ritual?

I usually wake up way too late to everything so I don’t have time for much, but I make sure that I slap myself in the face and realize how privileged and awesome I am.

What’s the best gift you’ve ever given?

What I gave? Uh, it- was for a boy. I will not say his name, as he does not deserve the shoutout. We went on a trip to the mountains, where we saw waterfalls, watched the sunset and lay under the stars….don’t worry, I’m over him now. I just miss the memories.

Do you like to cook?

Not really. I try it every now or then, but it never ends up tasting good and mostly just stresses me out.

What’s something you wear every day, besides your uniform?

A bracelet from my grandma. She passed away just before I got to attend Hogwarts.

What do you think your Patronus will be?

I don’t really know. I think I want it to be a surprise.

Do you want kids?

Yeah, I think so, but I don’t want to think about it too much. All the stress that must come with parenthood- gosh I hope I have some time before that.

Do you carry a water bottle with you to class?

Uh, no? Was I supposed to? I usually just drink in the great hall...

What do you first notice about someone when you meet them?

It’s probably cliche but… their eyes. Eyes can convey a lot of messages, and you can know what they feel before asking them. I would probably also look at their kicks, you gotta see if they have good taste.

What’s something you aspire to be?

A good friend, I hope I am an ok friend right now, but I know that I can improve.

What’s a city you want to visit?

Las Vegas and Los Angeles! So many celebrities live there, I want to see what it’s all about…

What is something you like to do that other people would probably consider “weird” if they knew?

I like to take two different flavors of droobles blowing gum and then I chew them at the same time. It’s quite interesting. Don’t worry professors, I don’t eat gum on school days.

What’s the worst topping to put on ice cream?

Gummy bears, I used to love them on my ice cream as a kid, but I’ve realized that they just become hard when they are cold and it doesn’t taste good.

What’s your middle name?

I have four: Liliane, Charlotta, Katherine and Mckinley. They are mostly from my mother's parents, who are pure bloods. I think they are fine but I rarely use them. Aurelia or Auri is just fine.
*Editor's note: ... is she trying to give Ana a run for her money?

What’s your favorite food?

Definitely my mum’s sticky toffee pudding. Yum.

Are you an early bird or a night owl?

Night owl, I like to watch the stars for a while before I fall asleep. You know, maybe if Quidditch player doesn’t work out for me, I’ll become a muggle astronaut.

What’s your best piece of advice you could give to someone?

Try not to think about what others think. I know that it’s hard, but most people don’t notice your imperfections. People are quite self-centered really.

What do you wish you knew at the beginning of the year?

Don’t be too harsh on yourself, everyone makes mistakes.

Do you have a good memory?

I think so… but then again, I like to only remember the good things. I try to push the bad ones away.

What do you never get tired of?

That feeling when you finally did something scary, it feels like you could do anything.

What’s the hardest you’ve ever worked for something?

Learning how to fly. I remember practicing almost every day for a while. I am still waiting for a position to open on the team.

You’re obviously good with art and layout, but would you ever consider writing for the Headliner?

Nah. Writing isn’t my thing. I’m not that much into interviewing or staying objective and all that.

Are you more of an indoors or outdoors person?

Outdoors for sure! Staying indoors gets boring after a while, I want to see new things!

What says the most about a person?

How they handle themselves when you get into an argument. Usually you can tell if they really care about you or not.

What are you most grateful for?

My parents. I know that many people don’t have parents anymore and I’m grateful that they are so supportive and caring.

What’s your favorite Headliner article you’ve ever read?

The Pride Month article! I’m totally not just saying that because you are interviewing me right now. Noope. Just kidding, it’s actually really interesting.

What is the meaning of a good life?

When you feel like you have accomplished everything you have ever wanted to and feel like you could die right then and there and be okay with it.

Reducio

What song would you probably be caught dancing alone to?

Electric Love by Børns and Backyard boy by Claire Rosinkranz. They are both songs I found on Tiktok and they just make me feel all tingly and happy.

Pineapple on pizza, yes or no?

Yes! I truly don’t understand people who don’t like it. Whatever, I guess. Don’t @ me.

What’s the best way to destress?

A nice walk. Anything nature really. Slap some music on and you're good.

What are you looking forward to?

Somehow… school. I’ve been stuck so long in quarantine without any siblings and can’t wait to go back. Although preferably when covid has passed.

What’s one of your guilty pleasures?

On my period I get this crazy craving for ice cream. Yeah. I can easily finish a tub (is it called a tub?) on my own.

What music artist do you never get tired of?

I don’t think I’ve ever had an artist who stuck. I just shift from artist to artist when I don’t like their music anymore. I also have an on/off phase with Billie Eilish.

How have you changed from when you were in middle school?

Oh gosh. Do you know that awkward period in middle school where you are totally into unicorns, slime, rainbow and watched 5 minute crafts? Never again.

What was the most beautiful view you’ve ever experienced?

I recently went to a national park in the US where we hiked a bunch and there was this one view where you were over the clouds and it felt like you were flying.

What country do you not know the location of, even though you should?

Uh, Morocco. I’m always so confused. It’s in Europe right? But like, idk where and I lived in Europe for 8 years. XD

What are some of the events in your life that made you who you are?

Most impactful was moving to the US. I grew a lot when that happened. Maybe it was because I was a middle schooler then, but I think it had a lot to do with the new environment.

What would be some of the most annoying things about being your roommate?

Probably me getting really moody and annoyed on my period but also me trying to be responsible one day and then completely chaotic the next.

What’s a movie that made you cry?

The first time I watched Titanic I burst into tears. I tend to get very emotional with movies but then just try to hide it.

What do you love most about yourself?

I guess I love how spontaneous I am. If someone would ask me to go skydiving with them I’d be like: “Sure, let’s do it”

What blows your mind every time you think about it?

Ok I saw this on Tiktok. I know what you’re thinking but hear me out. So this dude was talking about how everytime you open your mouth only your bottom jaw opens. Like the top half doesn’t move and afterwards I spent 10 minutes in front of a mirror trying to move my upper jaw.

Do you wash your hands in hot or cold water?

Erm… never really thought about it until now. Lukewarm I guess?

What’s something you can never seem to finish?

So in my school’s homework system there is an overdue column and however hard I try, it is never empty. Homework from the beginning of the year just stays there.

What seemingly insignificant accomplishment are you most proud of?

I guess it would be improving my art. You never really think that you have improved until you look back at sketchbooks from 2 years ago.

Do you wear perfume?

Sometimes, usually I don’t bother though.

What’s your Hogwarts house?

I’m a Gryffindor like Auri! At least that's what the Pottermore quiz says. I think it’s true though. My second house is Hufflepuff.

What gets you fired up?

I get quite fired up when I’m with friends and we are just dancing and shouting the lyrics to songs.

What’s your best example of “easy come, easy go”?

I don’t know if this makes sense but friendship. For example you can suddenly become friends with someone but then get into an argument or realize that they are toxic and then- poof. All the memories, all the happiness associated with them is gone.

On a scale of 1-10, how much do you like water?

5.75. Essential and refreshing (sometimes), but bland and dry.
*Editor’s note: I know we keep talking about whether water is wet or not, but I- guys, she’s saying that water is dry.

If you could do one illegal thing without getting caught, what would it be?

I think it would be something stupid like sneaking into Las Vegas’ most expensive hotel room or getting to live a like a billionaire for a day because I’m pretending to be someone else.