Harry Potter Nerds
All kinds of people want to be involved in collegiate a cappella groups. But when it comes to running a student organization, the leadership needs to think about how new personalities will affect the group dynamics. In this column, we take a candid look at the stereotypes associated with various sorts of people, and explain what these people may contribute to a group.
Please note that many of the characterizations presented in this column are intended to defuse mean-spirited stereotypes through humor. We do not intend to offend anyone.
In this edition we consider Harry Potter nerds.
I know, it can be hard to accept that the kid who came to auditions straight after playing an embarrassing approximation of quidditch on the main quad has a grasp on reality. Rather than dwelling on the point that this person lives in his own world a bit, consider the depth of imagination he might bring to your group. Such a group member may have some really interesting ideas that are a far cry from the beaten path.
So you don’t like the idea of the Harry Potter nerd bringing along his nerdy friends as hangers-on to your group. While it’s nice to be cool, don’t forget that any new fan contributes to your fan base, and never hurts to sell an extra ticket to your big show, or to sell one more CD.
OK, so the Harry Potter nerd might be a bit socially awkward, but what’s better than a truly socially awkward comment to help shut down extraneous conversations that are sidetracking your rehearsals? Use this to your advantage.