A students guide to Ramadan

10 things muslim students can do to get the most out of Ramadan

Ramadan is a month when Muslims all over the world strive to become better versions of themselves. Many Muslims engage in spiritual activities and strive to avoid sinning as much as possible. With exams and assignment deadlines around the corner, things may become overwhelming. The key to getting through it is to plan ahead of time, set your intentions, and put your trust in Allah. Here are a few things you can do to make the most out of Ramadan this year.

1. Purify your intentions. It is extremely important to always remember that every good deed you do is for the sake of Allah. We often do things to please others. It’s important to always reflect back just to get it clear.

2. Set goals for yourself; whether small or big, try your best to get something out of this Ramadan. This could be anything from praying all 5 prayers to memorizing chapters of the Quran.

3. Remember that Ramadan is the best time of the year for Muslims, and that good deeds are multiplied during this month, so try your best to do as many good deeds as you can.

4. Study for your tests and exams. Studying during the holy month can be a challenge in itself, but it is accompanied by a plethora of blessings which makes it all so much more rewarding.

5. Make sure you get enough sleep. I personally struggle with this, but getting enough sleep is crucial for your success. Make sure you get at least 6 hours of sleep, even if it isn’t a long-night sleep.

6. Limit your use of social media. Instead, use your free time to read the Quran, pray voluntary prayers, spend time with family or friends, or help your mothers in the kitchen (this is especially important for guys!).

7. Avoid listening to music as much as possible. This is difficult for many of us, but music is really distracting, so try listening to nasheeds or Quran instead.

8. Expand your understanding of Islam. Listen to podcasts, watch videos, or read books. Omar Suleiman’s Ramadan Series is incredible! Timeless Seeds of Advice, Secrets of Divine Love, and Reclaim your Heart are some great books to read.

9. Create a list of duas to read everyday. It’s super important to ask Allah for help before studying or when things start to feel difficult. Here are a few duas to assist you with your studies:

• For seeking knowledge: “Allahumma ‘innee ‘as’aluka ‘ilman naafi’an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa ‘amalan mutaqabbalan,” which translates to “O Allah, I ask You for knowledge that is beneficial, a good provision, and deeds that will be accepted.”

• For attaining knowledge: “Rabbi zidni ‘ilman wa arzuqni fahman,” which translates to “O Allah advance my knowledge and give me true understanding.”

• For ease before or during a test or exam: “Allahumma laa sahla ‘illaa maa ja’altahu sahlan wa ‘Anta taj’alul-hazna ‘ithaa shi’ta sahlan,” which translates to “O Allah, there is no ease other than what You make easy, and if You please, You ease sorrow.”

10. Maintain a positive attitude! While it’s really easy to become overwhelmed, remember that you will get rewarded for every small thing you do. Become nicer to your siblings, help your mom with the kitchen, and smile, it’s sunnah :)

It’s definitely not ideal to have Ramadan during the busiest time of the year. However, there are so many simple things you can do to make the most out of it. Take a break if you ever feel overwhelmed. Reach out to your friends if you need help; I’m pretty sure they’ll be happy to assist you. You can also reach out to any Muslim student; they will understand your struggles and will gladly help you with whatever it may be.