By Penny Ayala – Guest Writer
The Muslim Student Association at the University of Lynchburg is gaining traction with the increase in international student enrollment.
In its sixth year, the Muslim Student Association has been looking to play a more significant role in building a community for Muslim students as international student numbers increase on campus. Jeremy (Jer) Bryant, a university interfaith chaplain, said connecting student-led associations like the MSA to the main campus is important “so that students have a sense of belonging.” Bryant also said that the association’s focus has shifted to one that values “spiritual development and community.”
Every Friday, at 4:30 p.m., the MSA hosts meetings for all students, during which President Sonia Wahidi works to “create a safe space for community and a safe learning environment.”
Wahidi has been president of the MSA for over two years. However, she will graduate this December and is eager to find the next president. Currently, she is working with MSA alumni to create a short, weekly online class on Islamic texts for students to explore the religion more deeply.
Mir Sham, an international student from Bangladesh, said that her experience in the meetings and dinners has been “fun” because she is “ learning about different cultures” and meeting new people. She has gotten to personally experience what it is like to have a home away from home.
Shoureen looks forward to creating a welcoming space and events for other Muslim students during Iftar (the breaking of the Ramadan fasting period). She hopes this will bring the larger Muslim community on campus closer together. Despite being a small, less-known association on campus, the MSA is looking to do big things! To learn more about the Muslim Student Association’s mission and future events, contact Sonia Wahidi at wahidis772@lynchburg.edu!
