By Lou Boot
Ramadan is a sacred month in Islam marked by fasting from dawn till sunset and an important tradition for hundreds of millions across the globe. AUC is no exception, as many individuals within its community also observe this practice. Three individuals share their Ramadan journeys from this year to offer their perspective on university life while participating in a religious practice.
Sana Ansari, a first-year Sciences student, has observed Ramadan since her teenage years, a tradition deeply rooted in her Muslim family’s customs. During the past Ramadan, her primary concern has been the sense of seclusion she experiences at AUC. “It’s been pretty isolating,” she shares, “I’ve been used to doing it with my family”. Despite the challenges, she appreciates the support she receives from peers and professors. “There are lots of meetings and events that I’ve had to either not go to or go late to, and they’ve been pretty understanding,” Ansari says.
Areebah Huq, a first-year Social Sciences student, similarly observes Ramadan in accordance with her faith. The memories of Ramadan bring back nostalgia for Huq, reminding her of childhood and the cherished traditions of her family. Yet, her university experience is a new chapter where she doesn’t have her family around to, for instance, cook for her during Eid.
Balancing fasting with academic responsibilities proved difficult for her, especially during lengthy class hours. “It’s a lot of pressure,” she explains. Despite the occasional challenges of Ramadan, Huq appreciates the support of friends who share her cultural background. “I’ve grown a lot closer to my friends who’ve had people fasting around them,” she says.
First-year Humanities student Sam Kothuis, on the other hand, is a student who is taking part in Ramadan as a non-Muslim. For him, it was rather a personal exploration than for religious reasons. He embraced fasting rituals but felt uncertain about participating in prayers. “I feel a bit disingenuous to start praying if I’m not Muslim,” he admits. Despite being initially apprehensive, he found the experience surprisingly manageable. “I thought it’d be a gruelling task but so far, it’s not,” he says.
Sam does feel as though people should only partake if they find it necessary for themselves. “I think these are serious things for the people doing it, and I don’t think you should treat it too lightly,” he emphasises. Both Ansari and Huq, find it acceptable to try it, even if not fully or for religious beliefs. Even if someone is simply seeking a spiritual journey, aiming to experience it first-hand, or exploring potential health benefits, trying out Ramadan can be a valuable experience, Ansari explains. Huq is surprised upon hearing this, laughing as she says, “I think it’s really wholesome that they try to do it, but I am curious… why would you willingly put yourself through that?”
While each individual’s journey is unique, all three highlight the importance of support and understanding. As Huq suggests, increasing visibility of Ramadan-related activities can lead to more awareness and appreciation. This is echoed by Ansari, who emphasises that you cannot ask too many questions. “It is really nice that there are people that want to learn about Ramadan and participate in it and are excited to know what we do,” she says.
The Herring 