While Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry may not be known as the epitome of academia (even as far away as he United Kingdom, the land of courtyards and Cadburry Surprise Eggs), many a lesson in magic or realism resounded from its crumbling corridors. Sipping some felix felicis before finals may not be an option at the University level, but the values taught in the beloved British debacles cannot be denied.
1. As everyone's favorite oddball said to young Neville Longbottom, "It takes a great deal of courage to stand up to your enemies, but a great deal more to stand up to your friends.”
Forging friendships freshman year is one of the most fearsome--and most fulfilling--things you'll do both inside and away from the classroom. However, your space and sanity also remain a high priority. Respect your friends. Engage in discourse with new people. Explore different viewpoints. Acknowledge your privilege. But don't let anyone take away your sense of self. You are still the gawky girl with glass rimmed glasses now that you dream in your dorm room.
2. One surly professor does not a soiled student career make.
Just as Snape's discerning of Harry's character frequently turned out false, just because some of your professors seem to have something of a vendetta against you doesn't mean your college career is doomed or even damaged.
3. Your dining hall doesn't have enchanted ceilings or house elves.
Clean up after yourself, and make sure to take the time to thank cafeteria workers who make sure you get your pre-exam pizza.
4. "Ah, music, a magic beyond all we do here."
As long as you've got your headphones on, feel free to jam. It makes even the most banal subjects bearable to have a playlist. Don't focus on whether your taste matches other's preferences or not. Music snobbery is close to criminal. Bop and let bop.
5. Embrace the outcasts.
I'm sure 11-year-old Harry, all ether and elbows, had no idea that he would form meaningful relationships with those such as Dobby, Hagrid and Luna Lovegood, yet they proved to make major sacrifices to protect him. Don't write off a friend because they seem strange. This isn't high school. Relax. Anyone can sit at any lunch table. Slytherins can slather their fries in ranch alongside Hufflepuffs.
