For the purpose of this reflection, I will be referring to students in sixth form/college as they prepare for university.
I was fortunate enough to attend a chaotic cesspit of bold ideas, frantic discussion and strong opinion for the majority of my schooling; as have my fellow co founders. Engaging in intellectually stimulating conversations is one of the hallmarks of anyones time at school, whether by polite discussion or otherwise. Its pivotal that you challenge yourself and those around you in a safe environment at school. At university, often people who are unreceptive to more than one point of view end up being incredibly obstinate and struggle to function and maintain basic conversation. As Muslims, we should be open minded but firm in our Islamic beliefs and values.
School is a wonderful place where opinions are formed about things early, people often ‘make their mind up’ on big questions while at School. As Muslims, where possible it is our duty to dispel harmful and untrue narratives about Islam which are relentlessly perpetuated by the media in an effort to whip up even more Islamophobia and hysteria. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that us as Muslims hold onto our key values and remain proud of our identity. We share a lot of concerns with all Brits; the cost-of-living crisis, the death of integrity in politics and if England will ever win another trophy.
Some parting thoughts: make sure you enjoy what you have left of school. I remember being in the same position as many of you, dreading school – the early starts, the double lessons, the constant homework.
Now in my third year at medical school, I realise that my time at school holds some of my fondest memories. Cherish what time you’ve got left and make sure you finish school with no regrets thinking what you could’ve or might’ve done – schools do a terrific job supporting you so don’t be afraid to do something a bit unorthodox. People have brought forward some great initiatives and who knows, you might go even further.
Sure, university is exciting: the freedom, the feeling of being on a massive campus, of passing your exams, moving in to your accommodation, meeting so many new people are all things that you don’t forget as you progress in your studies. It is important to not get too carried away, as Muslims we must be mindful of our boundaries and have discipline but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your time.
As a final reminder, be thorough in choosing your friends. Get to know everyone who you think seems ok, but don’t rush into a friend group as often you will realise that over time, people aren’t what they seem. At school, parents would meet each other and most of the time you grew up with your school friends. At university you’re meeting people for the first time, you have no idea what they’re truly like. I’d say take some time to make friends as they will be with you for the entirety of your time at university. You spend so much time in the opening semesters that you’ll start to follow certain habits and actions; don’t fall complacent, stay disciplined with prayer and Ibadah and try and integrate with the ISOC weekly talks or circles. Jummu’ah is also a great place to meet people as well as the university prayer room.
‘People don’t read the Qur’an, they read you; so be a good read’. – Khabib Nurmagomedov.
