Navigating college as a Muslim student
By Najma Hussein
Juggling classes, cultural traditions, self-care and faith can be a handful. It’s easy to lose your way and get lost, not knowing who you are and what your purpose is. When I started college, I couldn’t balance my schoolwork and my well-being. It was one or the other. Together, let’s navigate college as Muslim students.
Tips:
1. Join the Muslim Student Association!
Being around like-minded people will be a reminder of Allah, and you all are building each other up. I remember attending events from MSA during my freshman year and meeting so many new people! It made me feel seen knowing there was a Muslim population on campus.
2. Stop by the prayer room — not only to pray, but also to reflect or do homework!
The prayer room on the second floor of the Center for Spirituality and Social Justice is a great place to go if you want some quiet time or need a space to reflect on anything. I find the prayer room to be a great place to chill and catch up on any homework.
3. Listen to podcasts or lectures.
Podcasts are in this year and are a great way to remind yourself of your intentions to Islam. I like listening to podcasts on my way to classes and doing assignments. My favorite ones would be The Digital Sisterhood and Your Muslim Girl Podcast. They discuss such interesting topics!
4. Build your support network.
This one is probably the most important. Everyone should have a support network. This could be your family, professors, counselors or peers. Without a support network, you cannot grow socially or emotionally. In college, this can be so beneficial because you always need those people in your corner who will support you and be practical with you.
5. Stay true to your values.
This is very important to maintaining identity and purpose! It’s hard to juggle everything in our busy lives, but staying true to ourselves will make us better individuals.
6. Educate yourself and those around you.
It’s common to encounter some students or faculty who might not be educated on Islam.
7. Attend Halaqahs
Attending Halaqahs with friends after class is a great way to remind yourself of Allah. It also brings you to a community of people in the same boat as you! I love to attend Strive Sisterhood’s Halaqah. You can find more information on their Instagram page.
8. Seek counseling!
Seeking counseling or therapy has been so rewarding for me as I don’t handle stress easily. It’s so important for everyone to improve themselves. Learning coping mechanisms and balancing your life are very important for college students. The counseling center on campus is the best place to start.
College has many highs and lows, and as Muslim students, we often face unique challenges in navigating our faith, academics and personal well-being. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Reach out to your fellow Muslim students, utilize the resources available on campus and never hesitate to seek help when needed.
