Starting university is an exciting adventure, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially for a new Muslim student at UCLA. Thankfully, there are amazing resources and helpful tips that will make your journey smoother and more fulfilling. If you’re looking to strengthen your connection to your faith and find a community that shares your passions, you’re in the right place!
Finding a group of Muslim friends has transformed my life, strengthened my faith, and shaped my values. Coming from a town with very few Muslims, it was difficult to find friends who shared my values, which sometimes left me feeling isolated. When I arrived at UCLA, I wasn’t sure if I would find a community I could connect with. However, through the MSA, I found a space where I felt comfortable and understood, surrounded by people with similar experiences. This sense of belonging made a huge difference in helping me settle in and stay connected to my faith. I know I’m not the only one who’s felt this way.
Looking back, there are a few things I wish I had known when I first arrived. Here’s what I wish I knew as a new Muslim student at UCLA:
Places to Pray
- Meditation Room on the 3rd Floor of Ackerman: A hidden gem for Muslim students, this peaceful indoor space is perfect for quiet prayer. The room is equipped with hijabs and prayer mats, but it’s small and best suited for individual prayers or small groups.
- Kerckhoff Outdoor Prayer Space: For a more spacious option, the tent outside Kerckhoff Hall is ideal. This outdoor area offers a calm environment, complete with prayer mats, and it’s conveniently located next to the beautiful architecture of Kerckhoff Hall—perfect for larger groups.
Jummah
This Fall Quarter, Jummah prayers will be held in the Pyramid Room on the second floor of John Wooden. After scanning your BruinCard at the entrance, head upstairs, turn left at the top, and walk to the end of the hall to reach the room.
MSA Projects
Getting involved in MSA projects is an incredible way to engage with the community and make a meaningful impact. In my experience, MSA projects stand out compared to other clubs because of the supportive community with shared values. While there are many options, I didn’t regret taking the time to explore each project and finding the ones that resonated with me most. Here are a few to look out for:
- Al-Talib News Magazine: Al-Talib is the first Muslim newsmagazine in the country! The supportive board members make it a great platform to express your voice and build your writing skills. Al-Talib provides a safe space to share perspectives and experiences while encouraging advocacy.
- Editor-in-Chief: Maham Kazmi
- Website: http://al-talib.org/
- Application: Link
- Instagram: @altalibnewsmag
- Beautiful Mind Project: Mental health is often stigmatized in Muslim communities. This project addresses that stigma with picnics, therapist talks, and Coffee Cookies & Chill events each quarter. As an intern this year, I found it rewarding to help plan events and work closely with the board. There are also volunteer opportunities available.
- Project Director: Suzaan Mehreen
- Email: bmp.ucla@gmail.com
- Instagram: @bmpatucla
- Umma Volunteer Project: If you’re pre-health, I highly recommend joining UVP. They host free mobile health clinics for underserved communities each quarter. It’s a great way to gain experience and make an impact. Some sites even offer online options for flexibility.
- Project Director: Zaina Sharqawi
- Email: umma.clinic.vol@gmail.com
- Instagram: @ummavolunteerproject
- MAPS (Mentors for Academic and Peer Support) : MAPS is an amazing community that visits underserved areas to teach students about everything from college applications to gang intervention and drug awareness. It’s a fulfilling way to volunteer and give back.
- Project Director: Mazin Awad
- Email: maps.ucla@gmail.com
- Instagram: @mapsxucla
- AMPD (Academic Mentorship and Professional Development): Whether you’re a freshman or transfer student, being a mentee in AMPD is incredibly helpful. It had a significant impact on my career goals, and I even gained a lifelong mentor who has become one of my closest friends at UCLA.
- Co-Project Directors: Taha Ahmed & Heba Bounar
- Email: ampd@msabruins.com
- Instagram: @ampducla
- Mentorship Sign-up form: [Link]
- IYTP (Incarcerated Youth Tutorial Project): IYTP is dedicated to providing educational resources to marginalized communities. The project focuses on tutoring and mentoring high school students in Boyle Heights and incarcerated youth at Camp Fred Miller.
Committees
Even if you’re not on board, being a part of MSA committees is a great way to be involved. The committees are Eid, Islam Awareness Week, Ramadan, College Day, Retreat, External Affairs Committee (EAC), End of Year Banquet, and Yearbook. Applications are usually sent out during the second week of school.
Chaplaincy
Ustadh Tabari, our chaplain, is an amazing resource for students. You can schedule free meetings with him via the MSA LinkTree for personal and spiritual guidance. He’s often found in Kerckhoff Hall, always smiling and making sure students are doing well.
He will be here every Wednesday!
MSA Room
The MSA room, located in Kerckhoff 146, serves as a dedicated space for Muslim students. Though small, it’s a cozy spot to relax, study, and connect with fellow members of the MSA. It has Qur’ans, a TV, and a refrigerator for your convenience.
Staying Up to Date
To stay informed about events and activities, subscribe to the MSA newsletter, follow all the MSA social media pages, and actively participate in events. Staying connected will help you feel more engaged with the community.
Halal Food Options
Finding halal food on campus can be tricky, but here are some options:
- Epicuria: This dining hall offers halal chicken, beef, and lamb, making it a solid choice for halal meals.
- Rende West: Rende West serves halal chicken and beef, although it’s not officially certified. The manager showed me the boxes, and the meat was labeled “halal.” However, it’s best to verify, as there’s been no official announcement from UCLA.
Ramadan at UCLA
Ramadan at UCLA is a special time that brings the Muslim community together. The MSA organizes daily iftars for over 200 people, offering a warm and welcoming space to break your fast with friends. Professor Khankan’s pancake schools are another highlight, giving students the chance to bond over breakfast before starting their fast. Attending Taraweeh prayers with your peers adds to the sense of unity, making the month feel spiritually fulfilling and close-knit. Ramadan at UCLA truly feels like a home away from home, where faith and community come together.
Takeaway
Being aware of these resources can greatly enhance your experience as a Muslim student at UCLA. Get involved, stay connected, and make the most of your time here!