How was James Head Boy without being a Prefect?

[Me1is]

No: HPFGUIDX 76867


> bboy_mn:
> 
> If you become a Prefect, it's an indicator that you have the
> characteristics necessary to perhaps eventually become Head 
Boy/Girl.
> That is, Perfects reflect students who are outstanding, so it's
> logical that these outstanding students would frequently become Head
> Boy/Girl. But the two aren't directly interrelated. Head Boy isn't
> king of the Prefects, it is a separate honor; think of it as
> valedictorian.
> 
> This Headship is an honor on all fronts but leaning mostly to
> outstanding academic achievement and inherent magical skill.
> Prefectship is related more toward responsible and trustworthy boys
> and girls who by their nature would also do reasonably well in 
academics.
> 


I think being head boy/girl is actually more like being school 
captain.  You have to be someone who can relate to both students and 
teachers, and have leadership qualities.  

>From what I have gained from American TV shows (not sure how accurate 
they are) Valedictorian is mainly just an academic honor.  I think to 
be head boy/girl you need to be academic/intelligent, but more 
important is that you can act as a role model and lead the school.

This is why Harry could definitely end up being Head boy - he may not 
be the most academic in the school but he's a role model (except for 
the times when everyone thinks he's evil :), he does extremely well 
in his extra-curricular activity (quidditch), has respect from both 
Teachers and Students (except the slytherins, but you can't please 
everyone),and he has shown leadership qualities (the DA). 

Plus he's Dumbledores favorite which will help, providing Harry gets 
over Dumbledores behaviour towards him from year 5.