Bismillah (In the name of Allah)
You’ve just embarked on a new chapter of your journey, whether it’s your first year at university or you’re a seasoned veteran. The first few weeks can feel challenging. It’s easy to think university is all about deadlines, grades and all-nighters.
But what if your studies could become an act of worship?
“Actions are judged by intentions.” You may have heard these words before from your local imam, your parents or others. These are the words of our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him)
It is narrated by Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Actions are judged by intentions, and every person will have what they intended.”
This hadith reminds us that our time spent at university doesn’t have to keep us away from our religion. In fact, with the correct intentions, every lecture you attend, every late night revision session and even every walk to and from class can become a source of reward.
Ask yourself: Why am I here? Maybe it’s to eventually earn an income to provide for your family. Perhaps it’s to become a role model in your community, to become someone your younger siblings or peers can look up to. Whatever your reason, remind yourself that your intention is for the sake of Allah
Bismillah (In the name of Allah)
You’ve just embarked on a new chapter of your journey, whether it’s your first year at university or you’re a seasoned veteran. The first few weeks can feel challenging. It’s easy to think university is all about deadlines, grades and all-nighters.
But what if your studies could become an act of worship?
“Actions are judged by intentions.” You may have heard these words before from your local imam, your parents or others. These are the words of our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him)
It is narrated by Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Actions are judged by intentions, and every person will have what they intended.”
This hadith reminds us that our time spent at university doesn’t have to keep us away from our religion. In fact, with the correct intentions, every lecture you attend, every late night revision session and even every walk to and from class can become a source of reward.
Ask yourself: Why am I here? Maybe it’s to eventually earn an income to provide for your family. Perhaps it’s to become a role model in your community, to become someone your younger siblings or peers can look up to. Whatever your reason, remind yourself that your intention is for the sake of Allah
How to put this into practice
- Start your day with “Bismillah (In the name of Allah)” and a simple du’a “Oh Allah, let my efforts today please You.”
- Renew your intentions often. Have a mental check-in with yourself and ask why you are studying and for what purpose. Do this daily or weekly to stay sincere and grounded.
- Surround yourself with people who remind you of Allah. Find a good circle of like-minded peers, join your university ISoc (Islamic Society), or attend a Roots class on campus.
Click here to see if there are any events at your university. - Set spiritual goals alongside academic ones.
“This week, I want to pray every salah on time, even on busy days.”
“This month, I want to read a page of Qur’an after every revision session.”
It shares personal stories from the perspective of a 4th year medical student from the UK going to a UK university and also from Ustadh Hisham Abu Yusuf and his experience as an international student.
There are good practical tips from students who’ve been through it all – trying to stay faithful while navigating campus life.
I chose this episode because it goes beyond generic advice. It gives you real, relatable guidance that’s rooted in faith, helping you build your university experience living a god centric life.
How to put this into practice
- Start your day with “Bismillah (In the name of Allah)” and a simple du’a “Oh Allah, let my efforts today please You.”
- Renew your intentions often. Have a mental check-in with yourself and ask why you are studying and for what purpose. Do this daily or weekly to stay sincere and grounded.
- Surround yourself with people who remind you of Allah. Find a good circle of like-minded peers, join your university ISoc (Islamic Society), or attend a Roots class on campus.
Click here to see if there are any events at your university. - Set spiritual goals alongside academic ones.
“This week, I want to pray every salah on time, even on busy days.”
“This month, I want to read a page of Qur’an after every revision session.”
It shares personal stories from the perspective of a 4th year medical student from the UK going to a UK university and also from Ustadh Hisham Abu Yusuf and his experience as an international student.
There are good practical tips from students who’ve been through it all – trying to stay faithful while navigating campus life.
I chose this episode because it goes beyond generic advice. It gives you real, relatable guidance that’s rooted in faith, helping you build your university experience living a god centric life.
University will come with challenges — that’s part of the journey. But never underestimate the power of your intention. When you make it for Allah, every step, every sweat, every sacrifice becomes meaningful and rewarding.
May Allah grant blessing in your journey, protect your faith, and make your time at university one of growth, happiness, and nearness to Him.
University will come with challenges — that’s part of the journey. But never underestimate the power of your intention. When you make it for Allah, every step, every sweat, every sacrifice becomes meaningful and rewarding.
May Allah grant blessing in your journey, protect your faith, and make your time at university one of growth, happiness, and nearness to Him.