First up, Cassia Evergreen interviews Lily Lavender:

Cassia: Hello there, Lily Lavender,

Good evening/afternoon/morning. I hope you had a great day at Hogwarts. May I take a few minutes from your busy schedule for a quick interview for the Hogwarts Seasonal Magazine Autumn 2024 Issue?

Lily: Hello Cassia!

Of course! I'd be honoured to be in your newspaper 

Cassia: Thanks for taking the time to answer. I noticed that your academic grades are impressive. So, I would like to start this interview by asking you how you manage to put up such an impressive performance academic wise.

Lily: No problem!

Academically, I try to really hone in and focus on each subject separately in order to fully understand all of the concepts being taught. I write physical notes (which I now have 2 big binders full of!) and then I rewrite them again as a study guide in the library so that others can benefit from my notes. Some subjects are a little harder than others, but I manage. I had to retake loads of Astronomy quizzes just to get it to a good grade!

Cassia: Wow! That's really cool! It's so nice that you let others see your notes and study them too! My next question is actually two. What do you most love about Hogwarts, and what do you most love about HiH? What, if anything, would you wish changed about HiH?

Lily: I love the magic Hogwarts brings and how excited everyone is when September comes around to go back to the castle. On HiH, I love grading and getting to meet new students. I also like how all subjects work at your own pace, so I don't ever feel like I'm falling behind.

I wish HiH could bring back the html coding for music and dropdown arrows on our backstories. That way, when one goes on your profile, it will instantly have the music of your choice and all of your elaborate backstory info can be condensed into sections instead of constantly scrolling to get to the end!

Cassia: Huh, interesting! I wasn't here long enough to know that HiH had those, but it sounds cool! The third question is also two, however, they're really similar so it shouldn't be hard. How did you become a Harry Potter fan? Who would you say is your favorite witch or wizard from the era when Harry Potter was a Hogwarts student?

Lily: I was in the 4th grade and my class read the first book together and then watched the first film. I was hooked ever since! My favorite student is Hermione Granger. Growing up, I realized I have some characteristics and traits of hers within myself. Thus, I relate to her a bunch.

Cassia: That's a really cool way! Hermione Granger is a great character that a lot of people love. Next, I want to ask you, if not Hogwarts, which school would you want to study at and why?

Lily: If I couldn't be at Hogwarts, I think either Ilvermorny or Beauxbatons Academy would be my next choices. Ilvermorny because it's close to home, and Beauxbatons Academy because it seems like a cool school to enroll to study abroad.

Cassia: That's awesome! Now I noticed that you're in the Gryffindor house, so I was wondering why you think you were put in it? Plus, if you could choose another house, which would you choose?

Lily: I think I was put in Gryffindor because of how determined I am to succeed in everything I do. I also love helping others, such as answering student questions about anything HiH. If I could choose another house, it would be either Ravenclaw or Hufflepuff because I love studying and I am very dedicated to many magical things.

Cassia: Interesting. All of those are good choices. My next question to you is which subjects at Hogwarts are your favorites? Are there any subjects you do not enjoy or would say you are struggling with?

Lily: I love Defense Against the Dark Arts, Transfiguration, Divination, and Ancient Runes. I am neutral with all other subjects except Astronomy, Alchemy, and History of Magic, as I struggle with these three the most. Mostly because I'm not as interested to learn about history and such, but that's just my disliked interests.

Cassia: That's cool! Defence Against the Dark Arts is one of my favorites too! Now, moving away from academics and Hogwarts, what are some interests and hobbies that you like doing outside of Hogwarts?

Lily: Outside of studying at Hogwarts and wizard life, I enjoy listening to music, catching up on tv shows and movies, and singing. I also love acting too. 

Cassia: That sounds cool! Nothing is better than curling up on the sofa to watch a movie or TV show while eating popcorn. So I know you are a PA, so I was wondering what do you love about the subjects you are a PA for? If you had to be a PA for another subject, which subject would you choose?

Lily: I love grading all of the quizzes and essays, as it helps to fully understand the subject being taught and to see all of the ideas students have while writing their essays. Be warned however, that any plagiarism, AI written, and AI visual content can earn you a 0% and no chance to rewrite them! I also love answering student questions about the content of the course and to answer questions about the assignments.

As of present, I am a Head Student and PA for Defense Against the Dark Arts. However, if I had the opportunity to PA for another subject in addition to DADA, I think I would like to PA for Transfiguration.

Cassia: That's amazing! It must be really cool to see multiple people's perspectives and ideas about Defense Against the Dark Arts as a PA. A few more PA questions I have for you are, how does it feel to be a PA? What is your favorite aspect of PAship? What kind of assignments do you find thrilling to grade?

Lily: Being a PA is awesome! My favorite thing to do is grading assignments. I find the drawing assignments and final exam thrilling to grade! With the drawing assignments, I love to see how creative students are on HiH and I love grading the final exam to see how far the student has come to finish the course.

Cassia: Being a PA sounds really fun! Maybe I'll look into being one after I finish a few courses. My last PA question is, how difficult is it to maintain your studies as a PA?

Lily: Truthfully, it isn't difficult at all! It depends on the professor, but I grade a minimum amount per week, which takes about an hour each week. More if the queue gets crazy. Thus, maintaining studies is easy to do.

Cassia: That good, it’s always great to have a schedule. We are almost done with this interview but my next few questions are how do you manage toggling between the Muggle world and Hogwarts? Do you think time-turners are very useful for this purpose? Does it help that HiH is self-paced?

Lily: Toggling between the Muggle world and the wizarding world is manageable, since I like to reserve time for both studies and doing my PA duties. For instance, I'll reserve a night or two for studying and an hour at some point throughout the week to grade.

I think a time-turner would be very useful! I could do so much more studying that way haha! It does help that HiH is self-paced, as I can take my time in doing each course and can change my days to fit my Muggle schedule.

Cassia: That's awesome! I always find it hard to balance the Muggle World with my wizarding studies. So as our interview wraps up, my last question for you is what's the general message that you want to share to the students here in Hogwarts?

Lily: Study hard and make magical things happen! Hogwarts is Here to welcome you home 

Cassia: That’s a great message! Well, thank you so much for letting me interview you, Lily Lavender. It was a pleasure to learn about you! I hope you have a wonderful rest of your day!

Lily: No problem! You as well!

Next, we have Cecilia Malfoy interviewing Martha Dessura:

Cecilia: Hello Martha, Good Morning. I am Cecilia Malfoy, a 1st year Gryffindor student. I was hoping to interview you on behalf of the Hogwarts Seasonal Magazine team for the Hogwarts Seasonal Magazine Autumn 2024 Issue. Is this a good time to talk?

Martha: Hello, Cecilia! Feel free to send me your questions.

Cecilia: Thanks for taking the time to answer. I noticed that your academic grades are impressive. So, I would like to start this interview by asking you how you manage to put up such an impressive performance academic wise.

Martha: I don’t usually take notes, so I answer from memory for most of the quizzes, unless the lesson is particularly heavy in new concepts, such as in Potions. I love doing research for many extra credit projects on HiH, it can not only boost your points but also help you to get a good understanding of the subject overall. I’ve lost points in the past for rushing through MCQs without reading questions properly, but practice has certainly helped me with that.

Cecilia: Wow ! That’s an awesome way to do quizzes ! My next question is actually two. What do you most love about Hogwarts, and what do you most love about HiH? What, if anything, would you wish changed about HiH?

Martha: I do enjoy the opportunity to get connected with like-minded Harry Potter fans over here and talk a lot about Hogwarts things. Other than that, I personally enjoy the realistic level of academics on HiH, which is still fresh for me even after three years on HiH.There’s nothing site-wise I’d change on HiH, but I believe a little more accessibility in socializing, going with the theme of the site, would be better. HiH is definitely not an alternative for Facebook, at least in my view!

Cecilia: The third question is also two, however, they're really similar so it shouldn't be hard. How did you become a Harry Potter fan? Who would you say is your favorite witch or wizard from the era when Harry Potter was a Hogwarts student?

Martha: I read the first Harry Potter book from my middle school Library, and loved it! I’m still reading and watching Harry Potter even now at University, what do you think?!

I’ve always loved McGonagall (RIP to Maggie Smith), she was the professor I always dreamed to learn from!

Cecilia: Ah…. Yes, Professor McGongall is indeed our idol. Next, I want to ask you, if not Hogwarts, which school would you want to study at and why?

Martha: Mahoutokoro! I’ve always had a knack for Japanese Culture, I’d be thrilled to see how their magic gets aligned with the interesting culture on the island. A real opportunity to continue a few research projects that I am participating in right now! 


Cecilia: That’s interesting ! Now I noticed that you're in the Ravenclaw house, so I was wondering why you think you were put in it? Plus, if you could choose another house, which would you choose?

Martha: I’m introverted, which I believe would be one of the main reasons why I was made an Eagle. I was always known for “taking the other way, or thinking “beyond the frame”, so I came up with really different ideas for projects no one thought about before. Not to say they were all good, but they were ones no one had thought about. Ravenclaw is the place for creativity beyond its traditional sense.

I believe I might become a Slytherin - I’m also known to be excessively ambitious until I get what I want at the end.


Cecilia: Those are very interesting reasons. Finally I am meeting someone who is like a Slytherin ! Usually people choose Gryffindor. My next question to you is which subjects at Hogwarts are your favorites? Are there any subjects you do not enjoy or would say you are struggling with?

Martha: I enjoy Potions and Ancient Runes a lot, but Astronomy and Charms are close enough! These classes often provide opportunities to get beyond the lessons and do some outside research, present something new to get innovative. They can be particularly challenging at times, and I wouldn’t say no to some challenge !

I’ve tried and failed to fall in love with Herbology continuously. I did enjoy its first year but gradually dropped the interest as they went on, especially since lessons became rather monotonous for me.

Cecilia: I can relate with the Herbology scenario. Now, moving away from academics and Hogwarts, what are some interests and hobbies that you like doing outside of Hogwarts?

Martha: I love night sky observation! Writing, Editing, composing, and debates, all I love to do in my spare time. I do have a fish tank too, and a few minutes right there would increase my schedule!

Cecilia: That’s pretty cool ! So I know you are a PA, so I was wondering what do you love about the subjects you are a PA for? If you had to be a PA for another subject, which subject would you choose?

Martha: I PA for Potions, Charms and Flying. Potions is one of my all-time favorites, I said that before. Both Charms and Flying are quite interesting and unique, too. I enjoy reading versatile assignments from students especially in older years of Charms, and I love to see students grow over, learn from mistakes and get improved with hard work. I always valued hard work, even in Real life, so it’s naturally pleasing to see that.

I’d love to be a PA for Ancient Runes one day, what an amazing experience it would be to read through students’ thoughts on hieroglyphics and the magic they hide!

Cecilia: Thank you!

Last but not least, Neilman Goldstien interviews Sienna Dixon:

Neilman: Hello, good evening Sienna Dixon. I hope you had a great day at Hogwarts. May I take a few minutes out of your busy schedule for a quick interview for the Fall 2024 issue of Hogwarts' seasonal magazine?

Sienna: An interview would be nice. As long as it doesn't have to do with my personal data, I'll be happy to participate!

Neilman: Thank you very much for responding, and even more so for accepting. Don't worry, your personal data will not appear in the magazine. I've noticed that your academic grades are quite impressive. I would like to start this interview by asking you how you manage to have such an extraordinary academic performance?

Sienna: I think it is very important for me to feel passionate about the subjects you continue to study. Although there are some compulsory subjects, as you progress through Hogwarts, you will notice that there is more room to choose subjects. If you are going to learn anything from me during your time at Hogwarts, it is to choose subjects that you really enjoy, rather than those that will please others.

In particular, I've seen sophomores panic in my common room because they choose an elective that maybe a friend took, or a parent or teacher convinced them to take. However, they don't really like the subject and therefore cannot bear to focus on their studies properly.

Although this may seem like a rant, what I'm trying to say is do what you like. Success will always come hand in hand. I have to say, there's a reason Herbology, Care of Magical Creatures, and Ancient Runes are by far my highest scoring subjects.

Nielman: You're right, people's success is in doing what they like most and on their own! Now I would like to ask you. What do you like most about Hogwarts and HiH? What would you like to change about HiH, if anything?

Sienna: What I like the most is the HiH! community. Interacting with students and teachers always makes me smile. Every time I see an owl pop-up notification, I can't help but click on it instantly. As for changes, I would love for there to be graduate content. Although it would be a major implementation that the staff would have to focus on, I think it could happen in the future.

Nielman: Incredible! I guess most of us have the same feeling. We share something in common. Tell me, how did you become a Harry Potter fan? Is there a favorite witch or wizard from the time when Harry Potter studied at Hogwarts?

Sienna: I remember my mother always loved the Harry Potter series, as she was working as an elementary school teacher when it came out. Therefore, I eventually inherited his copy of "The Philosopher's Stone." That's where it all started! Oh, I also have the "1 wand" error printed on my copy twice, so! I would like to consider myself part of the first generation of Harry Potter lovers.

This is a character I came to love in the final book: Narcissa Malfoy. Hear me out, but the character development we saw from her.

DEATHLY HALLOWS SPOILERS:

Watching her protect Harry from Voldemort after Draco is confirmed to be alive really won me over. I never imagined choosing Malfoy as my favorite character, but here we are!

Nielman: Wow! You have one of the first copies of the books! How incredible. And Narcissa is certainly a wonderful witch! In case you didn't go to Hogwarts. What would be the school you would like to study at, and why?

Sienna: I think I would choose Ilivemorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, as I feel that the history behind the school has been very good and being on that campus would take things to another level. Frankly, that would probably get me some arrests, but I feel like that's how I'll always be. Too curious for my own good.

Nielman: I can't deny that Ilvermorny is a lovely school! Haha, I see. I noticed you were chosen for Ravenclaw. Why do you think the Sorting Hat put you in founder Rowena's house? And if you could be in any other house of your choice, which one would you choose?

Sienna: I would say that I am a Ravenclaw at heart. As I said, I'm a little too curious for my own good. I've escaped to the CoMC area instead of attending my Astronomy classes freshman year, just to further explore my interest in caring for magical creatures. Overall, I would say that I am very passionate and determined in everything I do.

As for another house, I would choose Gryffindor. As I said, I will do whatever it takes to satisfy my curiosity, and I think that takes a lot of bravery. In fact, I would say that Gryffindor and Ravenclaw traits go hand in hand, as those are the two houses that usually cause the Sorting Hat to go unanswered.

Nielman: Haha worthy of a Ravenclaw, but as you said also of a Gryffindor. Now I ask you. What are your favorite subjects at Hogwarts? Is there a subject that you don't like or that you would say is difficult for you?

Sienna: Now, as a Herbology major, I'm going to be a little biased about that subject. Honestly, I love Herbology and everything related to it. I could talk about my favorite plants all day! Other subjects I enjoy are Care of Magical Creatures and Ancient Runes. Honestly, who can't help but learn about beautiful magical creatures and magical runes?

Although I was very excited about Astronomy when I first signed up, I have had some problems along the way. I've never been very good at math, and even the simplest equations can be difficult for my brain to understand. Obviously Professor Plumb is amazing, but I can't say Astronomy is a class I particularly enjoy.

Nielman: And you're amazing as a head student! Well, astronomy is a bit difficult for many. Well Ms Dixon, what are your interests and hobbies outside of Hogwarts?

Sienna: So, actually, I'm a writer! My first book will be out early next year and I plan to release it for pre-sale soon. Writing has been one of my biggest hobbies for as long as I can remember. Other than that, I'm a theater guy at heart, to be honest, as well as a pianist!

Nielman: Wow! How amazing Sienna, I definitely have to read it someday! and you also play the piano and do theater, there is nothing that can stop you! Touching on the topic of tastes.  What do you like most about the subjects in which you are a personal assistant? If you had to be in another subject, what would it be?

Sienna: Herbology is currently the only subject I help with. I have really enjoyed the lead student role as it is more about talking to other TAs and helping students with their work rather than just hanging out in the grading queue. I'm a very social person, so that would be what I like most about this role!

As for other subjects, this is difficult. I want to pick Care of Magical Creatures, simply because it's a little more popular than Ancient Runes, which would be my second choice. I actually love having a lot to do in my day, so I will always choose the subject that has the most to grade and the most OWL to answer.

Nielman: I understand perfectly, I want to study CoCM when I have the chance! What does it feel like to be a personal assistant? What do you like most about being one? What types of assignments are you excited about grading?

I love working as an on-site PA as it is a rewarding job to see students succeed in their studies.

Sienna: One of my favorite things, which is part of my job, is helping students with any questions they have about the content and providing feedback. This is also an opportunity to ask everyone reading this to owl me. I love talking to my fellow students, whether it's about my work on the site or not!

My favorite assignments to grade are all from HERB-301, as I mean that's when the content gets interesting. I particularly love the essay on tea that students complete in the third year of the course, as it shows their process and thinking behind making tea. Those are probably my favorite tasks!

Nielman: You are definitely of great help! You answer the homework questions clearly but without revealing an answer! But is it difficult to maintain your studies as a PA?

Sienna: Although it varies from one PA to another, it doesn't affect my studies too much. Most of what I do is grade, give feedback to other PAs, and answer questions of the week, so I find ways to integrate my studies in between all of that. The only thing I would say on this topic is that perhaps I focus too much on HERB studies now, compared to some of my other courses.

Nielman: I see that you tend to focus (a little more) on herbology, since it is the subject that you should know the most in depth for your job as a personal assistant. How do you manage to switch between the muggle world and Hogwarts? Do you think time turners are very useful for this purpose? Does it help that HiH adapts to your own pace?

Sienna: If all the time turners hadn't been destroyed, I would definitely be taking advantage of them haha. I think HiH is great for adjusting to your own pace and the way the lessons are laid out. Additionally, you can contact personal assistants and your teachers at any time.

Nielman: Time turners are definitely a very useful but dangerous tool! To finish this interview, I would like to ask. What would be your general message to all the other students at this school?

Sienna: Do what you want with your life. Don't let your parents, class seniority, or higher education influence your way of thinking. Do what makes you happy and success will come! 

Thank you very much for the interview, Neilman! It's been a pleasure chatting with you. I look forward to seeing you and anyone else who reads the greenhouse interview transcript.

Nielman: What a great message, I certainly think this applies to both the magical world and the Muggle world. The pleasure is mine, Sienna. Thank you very much for your time!

That's all the interviews this season