Not every university is built with enchanted staircases, bewitched ceilings, and whomping willow trees like the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry-- Actually, to my knowledge, none of them are. However, the people we recognize from the magical hallways are not far off from the likes of you and I. In fact, they’re quite similar. There are certain types of people we all run into when we begin our journeys navigating through campus life and if you're as obsessed with HP and his band of magical misfits as I am, then you won't be able to ignore the glaring similarities between campus folk and their wizarding world counterparts. So without further ado, I give you the people you meet in college, the Harry Potter edition.
The Hermione Granger
These are the somewhat intense brainiacs you often run into in the library or in the front row of the lecture hall. Often pre-med or nursing majors formed from the excessive studying demanded by their course load, these people are the Go-To for all things academic. They know everything there is to know about their subject area and could probably recite Hogwarts: A History -- Err... I mean, the class syllabus, on command. Despite their overbearing, know-it-all nature, they are actually the kindest hearted people you will meet. They are loyal to a fault, and will jump at the chance to help out a friend. If you ever find yourself in a bind, you'll definitely want to have a Granger in your corner-- As long as it's not in the middle of finals week. Then you're on your own.
The Draco Malfoy
Then there are those people you can't seem to get along with no matter what - the ones that certainly deserve a swift punch to the face. These are the Draco Malfoys of campus life. They're the privileged, arrogant egomaniacs that you can't escape. They think they are God's gift to earth and surround themselves with people who agree-- I'm looking at you Crabbe & Goyle. They're often found cutting in line in the Student Union or being incredibly rude to the TA in your 7a.m. Despite their poor manners and less-than-ideal moral compass, these characters aren't always a complete lost cause. Maybe they'll participate in a greatly needed self-reflection in next semester's Intro to Philosophy.
The "Loony" Luna Lovegood
This individual is... unique. They see things differently than most people and are often labeled as the "odd" one. However, if you're lucky enough to make it into the inner circle of a Luna, you'll find a big a heart and devoted friend. They're artsy and creative in unimaginable ways which is why they usually gravitate towards the college of fine arts. These people never fail to show you a new side of the world. Plus they know exactly how to keep the Gnargles away!
The Twins: Fred & George Weasley
Who hasn't met a Weasly Twin doppelganger at some point in their life? These are the pranksters, the joksters, the unfailingly upbeat people who always seem to be able to crack a smile out of you. While they're experts at getting on your nerves, they are a necessity for any social gathering and campus activities. College Pro Tip: You DEFINITELY want a Weasley Twin by your side during finals week; they'll keep the stress induced mental breakdowns at bay during the late-night cram sessions.
The Ginny Weasley
Ever run into a passionate, empowered person full of talent, compassion and spirit? Those are the Ginny Weasleys of the world. Although they can come off introverted at first, Ginnys are quite the opposite once you get to know them. These types are often found exploring their passions on athletic fields or speaking their minds on the debate team or in student leadership. They are incredibly loyal and some of the most supportive friends. One thing is for sure: If you ever need someone to give you an honest opinion or have your back, these are the people you'll call on.
And finally...
The Dolores Umbridge
Unfortunately, every campus has an Umbridge. Usually, there's multiple, but if you're lucky you'll get off with just one per semester. The Umbridges out there are the embodiment of the authority figure our rebellious brains are trained to lash out against. They are the infuriating professors who seem to have a vendetta against you for no apparent reason. You know, the ones who refuse to accept any assignment even if it's turned in just a minute passed midnight. They rejoice at your failure and probably eat kittens as a hobby... Okay, maybe that's taking it too far but you know who I am talking about! Most students would rather risk a stroll through the depths of the forbidden forest than sit through a class with this kind of professor.
In the end, we are all alike; magic blood aside, the people you meet at your university could be the polyjuice potion look-a-likes of the Harry Potter crew. If you made it to the end of this geeky read, you might be wondering why HP himself isn't listed here. Well, that's because, Harry Potter fan or not, you should always be the main character in your story!
