The user, an entertainment journalist, asks Rinko about how Mei's popularity as a popstar has affected the dynamic in her classroom.
Good day, Ms. Tamura. I'm writing a piece on Tsurumisaki Mei and her life as a student-popstar. Can we talk about how her fame has impacted your classroom?  Has Mei's popstar status made her stand out among her peers?
user
Oh, absolutely! At first, it was quite the buzz. Students were fascinated, and it was challenging to keep the classroom from turning into a fan club meeting.
assistant
Are the students supportive or is there jealousy involved?
user
You know, I've seen a lot of support. Sure, there were a few envious glances in the beginning, but Mei's down-to-earth nature won everyone over.
assistant
That's good to hear. Does Mei get special treatment from her classmates or teachers because of her fame?
user
Not really from the teachers; we're pretty strict about treating every student equally. Mei wouldn't have it any other way herself. But she does get lots of little fan gestures from her classmates.
assistant
Can you tell me how her schedule as a popstar affects her academic commitments?
user
Mei is very diligent. She works her schedule around school as much as possible, though she does have to miss some school for her activities. We try to be accommodating and help her keep up.
assistant
Is her academic performance on par with her peers, considering her busy life?
user
Surprisingly, yes. Her grades are quite good. She's especially talented in languages and the arts. It takes a lot of self-discipline, and she's got it.
assistant
Has the school had to deal with the media attention surrounding Mei?
user
Yes, the school's administration handles the media. We strive to protect the privacy and normalcy of our students' lives, so it's a carefully managed process.
assistant
Has Mei's presence raised the profile of the school?
user
In a way, it has. We've had more inquiries from parents who think we have some special program for talented kids. But Mei's the exception, not the rule.
assistant
How does Mei handle the attention at school? Does it distract her?
user
At times, it must be distracting, but she never shows it. She's always focused on her school work during classes. It's quite admirable.
assistant
Do students treat her as a celebrity or just as another classmate?
user
Initially, she was a celebrity to them, but now she's just Mei. It helps that she doesn't put on airs. She's a friend, a classmate, a club member - very well integrated.
assistant
Does Mei participate in school activities and clubs?
user
Yes, she does. She's part of the dance club - no surprise there - and she contributes whenever she can. She's an inspiration to her clubmates.
assistant
With her busy popstar life, how does she manage stress?
user
I think she finds her school life to be a break from her popstar responsibilities. She's always vibrant and cheerful, and she seems to really enjoy the everyday moments.
assistant
Has her popularity affected the way you teach in any way?
user
Not really my teaching, but certainly classroom management at times. I have to make sure that the students stay focused on the lesson and not on Mei's latest concert.
assistant
That sounds challenging. How do you keep the balance?
user
It's all about setting the right expectations and maintaining routine. I remind students that the classroom is for learning, and there's a time and place for fandom.
assistant
Have there been any conflicts or issues arising from her dual life?
user
Nothing major. Some logistical hiccups with scheduling, and occasionally other students have tried to involve her too much in school gossip or social media buzz.
assistant
Can you tell me more about how her classmates view her career? Are they curious, indifferent, supportive?
user
They are mostly curious and supportive. They ask questions, and Mei is gracious in sharing her experiences. They're proud to have a popstar in their midst but respect her space.
assistant
Does Mei ever share her experiences as an idol with the class?
user
Sometimes. During show-and-tell or specific class discussions, she'll give insights into her life as a popstar. It's usually very educational and inspires interesting conversations.
assistant
It must be fascinating for the other students. Does this motivate them in any way?
user
Definitely. They see her working hard to achieve her dreams, and it motivates them to pursue their own goals. She's a role model for dedication, hard work, and humility.
assistant
Does the school have any plans to leverage Mei's success for promotional purposes?
user
The school is quite respectful of Mei's personal career. Any collaboration between her popstar persona and the school is done with her consent and is usually for charity events.
assistant
Has Mei expressed any difficulties in juggling her entertainment career and school life?
user
Mei keeps a cheerful front, but I can tell it's not easy. She's confided in me a few times about feeling overwhelmed. Thankfully, she has a good support system.
assistant
It must be quite a pressure for a teenager. How do her parents handle her fame?
user
Her parents are incredibly supportive and protective. They've set up a strong boundary between her work and personal life, ensuring she has normalcy at home and school.
assistant
It's reassuring to hear that. Finally, what kind of impact do you think this experience will have on Mei's future?
user
I believe it's shaping her into a well-rounded individual. She's learning a lot about the world, about people, and most crucially, about herself. It bodes well for her future.
assistant
Thank you for your time and insights, Ms. Tamura. It's been very enlightening.
user
You're very welcome. If you have any more questions in the future, feel free to ask. Good luck with your article!
assistant
Will do, and thank you again. Take care, Ms. Tamura!
user
You too! Have a lovely day! Bye-bye! ♥^*
assistant