In the month of Ramadan, Muslim students face the unique challenge of balancing the demands of their studies and religious obligations. But unlike in Muslim-majority countries where the entire calendar shifts to fit the sacred month, Muslim minorities in the states and elsewhere have a few more hurdles to contend with. That doesn’t stop them from making the most of Ramadan.
Five students shared their secrets to successfully fasting, studying, and staying fit during Ramadan.
Photo Credit: Bousseyna Ousman
In the bustling life of a full-time college student and part-time elementary teacher, Bousseyna Ousman demonstrates an inspiring dedication to her studies, work, and spiritual well-being.
Leading up to Ramadan, she plans to create a meticulous schedule, dedicating specific days to classes and tasks to manage the workload effectively.
“I’ll cut down on work hours to spend more time with family and strengthen my connection with God,” she said.
Photo Credit: Mouhamadou Seck
Mouhamadou Seck, a Mechanical Engineering Major, has come up with a novel way to keep his grades up.
“I’m extending my study hours into the night. I plan to study more, staying up at night like I used to when I waited to eat as a child,” said Seck.
Additionally, he wants to further his spiritual growth by praying and reading the Quran more often. It is a blend of academic excellence and spirituality that many students aim to achieve during Ramadan.
Photo Credit: Baba
Italian Business Finance major Baba knows a thing or two about fasting in society’s not geared around it. He takes it in stride, developing a schedule that aligns with the various rituals he follows.
Baba said he intends to work out earlier in the day and maximize productivity at school before breaking fast.
“It is all about having a planned schedule. This will help me have a more driven and purposeful day,” Baba said.
Photo Credit: Dalia
Dalia, a Business Management student from Egypt, is concerned she may not have time to head to the gym. She will however make an effort to workout at night.
“I will structure my day as usual without making significant changes because I need to stay committed to my studies. However, I will focus on eating well during morning meal and when breaking fast to meet my daily nutritional needs,” Dalia said.
“I will go to the mosque every day to break fast with my friends and other people there. We’ll pray together and stay connected so that we are not isolated during this important time of the year.
Lastly, Amina Mordova, a biology student from Turkey, offered valuable insight into how she fasted back home.
“It was kind of the same during Ramadan without school, except I was hungrier, which made it difficult to focus. But you just must do what you have to do,” Mordova sajd.
“I would adjust my sleep schedule completely. I would eat, pray, and then go back to sleep. And of course, it is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day,” the biology student added.
While daunting for first timers, seasoned fasters like Mordova and her peers are well-prepared to welcome Ramadan with open arms.
Zulhafidz Aluddin and Naglaa Mohamed, Interns