If you could cast any spell, what would it be and why?

“I would use the Portus spell all of the time. Portus allows you to turn any item into a portkey, which can take yourself or others to any destination of your choosing. Can you imagine all of the traveling I would do?” – Katie P., advertising production direction

“I would cast a motivation spell and use it when I don't have the motivation for an early-morning workout!” – Casey L., intern

"If I could cast any spell, I'd turn myself into a wizard mermaid! I've wanted to be one ever since I could swim, and the mermaids in The Goblet of Fire were my favorite." – Kelsey H., advertising assistant

“It’s not a spell per say, but I’d love to be an animagus. As long as I wasn’t a rat. Who’d want that association?” – Brittany T., online editorial assistant

I would want to be able to read minds. Sometimes I just want to know what people are truly thinking.” – Patty O., senior national advertising director

“I'd love to have the ability to cast an undetectable extension charm on my own handbag just as Hermione did in Deathly Hallows part 1. I’d be able to carry around everything I need in a teeny purse! And naturally, then I’d also require the Accio spell so I could summon up my cell/keys/gloss without all the rummaging.” – Jessica D., fashion and beauty assistant

“Forget spell casting.  My very own flying broomstick would make it so much easier to travel to that summer vacay.” – Karmen F., online contributing editor

And…who’s your favorite character?

“That’s a tough one. I don’t think there are many characters I dislike. If I had to choose, I would have to say Professor McGonagall is my favorite. I love her wit and quippy personality. She’s friendly and kind, but a very powerful, respected, strong woman. And when duty calls, boy does she deliver.” – Katie P.

“Hermione. She's smart.” – Patty O.

“Ron Weasley is definitely my favorite character because he is so adorable and always says the funniest things!” – Casey L.

"Definitely Dumbledore! He reminds me of all my favorite teachers from over the years. And it doesn't hurt that he's pretty much the most powerful wizard around." – Kelsey H.

“Definitely Hermione.  I relate to her, since I'm rather feisty and pretty good at trivia.” – Karmen F.

“I can’t do it. I can’t pick just one. I love watching Neville and Luna grow as characters, and the complexity and utter badness of Snape. He’s just so deliciously evil.” – Brittany T.

by GL | 2/1/2016