Maybe he meets an exchange student from a different magical school. For example, a student from Beauxbatons or Durmstrang. They could share their different magical cultures and knowledge with Harry, and together they could face some challenges that require a combination of their unique skills.
He might meet a mysterious figure who is actually a long - lost relative. This relative could have some special powers or knowledge about Harry's family history that has been hidden all this time. It could lead to Harry learning more about his family and his own destiny in a more personal way.
It could be a random wizard or witch from another school. Maybe a student from Beauxbatons or Durmstrang who crosses paths with Harry before he meets Ron or Hermione. This could lead to a whole new set of adventures and friendships that change the course of the story as we know it.
They could go on an adventure to find a lost magical artifact. The two of them would have to face various obstacles, like dark creatures and complex spells set to protect the artifact.
If Harry meets someone else first, it could completely change his character development. For instance, if he meets a more cynical wizard at the start, he might become more guarded or less trusting compared to the Harry we know who met Ron and Hermione first.
He could meet new professors. These professors would have their own teaching styles and areas of expertise. They might introduce Harry to different aspects of American magic that he has never encountered before.
It could be a whole new adventure or a twist in the afterlife. Maybe it's a reunion with a long-lost friend or an encounter with a mysterious figure.
In many of these fanfictions, Sirius Black could be an alternative caregiver. He was Harry's godfather, after all. He had a strong connection to Harry's father and would have been a natural choice to raise Harry if not for his imprisonment. He was brave and had a strong sense of family loyalty.
He could meet new witches and wizards from different cultures. For example, he might run into a powerful African wizard who has unique magical abilities related to nature magic. Or he could meet a Japanese witch who specializes in charm - making that is based on ancient Shinto beliefs.
Harry might meet some American wizarding families that have long - standing traditions different from the pure - blood families in the UK. These families could introduce Harry to new forms of magic and social norms within the American wizarding community. He could also meet American Muggle - born wizards who have their own unique stories of discovering magic in a different cultural context compared to what he's used to.
He could meet French pure - blood families who have their own long - standing traditions. For instance, there might be a family that has a special connection to a particular magical forest in France. Harry might also run into French wizards who are experts in potion - making, as France is known for its fine potions in the wizarding world.
It's appealing because it allows fans to explore different possibilities. We get to see Harry in a new light, which can be exciting.