The most rewarding part of college life lies in the growth we experience beyond our academic pursuits. Clubs play a pivotal role in bringing about positive change and creating lasting memories. One unique aspect about being a college student is the ability to embrace multiple identities and nurture them in meaningful ways. When we’re given the opportunity to deepen our connection to our faith and to others, we tap into the very essence of what sustains a thriving community. Similarly, the richness of college life stems from finding solace in a group of people in which you can carry your identity proudly and work on perfecting it as well. The Muslim Student Association (MSA) at Fordham University is a club that embodies these qualities.
At Fordham, MSA is centered around fostering a vibrant and inclusive Muslim community where Muslim students can be supported, empowered and inspired to grow in various categories of life. MSA stands for more than a club that centers its goals around what it’s like to have a Muslim identity on campus. Secretary Tasfia Ferdousi said, “MSA is all about creating a warm, welcoming space for our Muslim brothers and sisters to come together, connect and support each other.”
MSA actively maintains its presence as both a faith-based and social community through a variety of events. These include regular Jummah prayers and an array of activities that cater to both the spiritual and social needs of its members. As Events Coordinator Mehak Imran notes, “We hold a lot of spiritual events as well as social ones, giving Muslims the chance to stay engaged with their faith while on campus, and to find others in similar positions.” One such event was the recent Charity Week, which successfully combined a gala, auction, henna table and bake sale to raise funds for underprivileged communities and countries in need. This blend of faith and community is a perfect example of what MSA stands for.
The leadership team is already looking forward to the upcoming semester, with several exciting events in the works. “We’re planning a pre-Thanksgiving potluck and a welcome back dinner in the spring, as well as fun Iftars and Ramadan events,” said Imran. Former board member Fatimah Waqas shared her anticipation for the Ramadan events, noting, “I’m really looking forward to Ramadan next semester. It was a lot of fun to organize last time, and I can’t wait to see what MSA has in store for the upcoming Ramadan!”
MSA takes pride in their community, especially their community members. Several leaders including Vice President Aadam Ali, Ferdousi and Imran shared that their favorite part of MSA is the community members, both old and new. All emphasized that MSA granted them the opportunity to build authentic friendships while cultivating a familial feel within others. Fatimah Waqas also said, “I find it incredibly inspiring to be part of a space where people come together over shared values, supporting one another both in faith and in everyday life. At the end of the day, it feels like a family and a support system — something that I’m extremely grateful for and will reflect upon fondly after my Fordham years.” Ali had similar thoughts, saying, “MSA does a good job of uniting Muslims to bring that sense of a second family on the Fordham campus.”
As a member myself, I have witnessed the dedication of the leaders in creating a supportive environment for students on campus. In a time of uncertainty and constant change, being part of MSA has taught me the value of leaning on a nurturing community and finding peace in the process. It’s a place where I’ve been embraced and where shared values and laughter have blossomed into lighthearted friendships. I truly believe that the best place for personal growth resides within a community because strengthening one’s identity comes from a foundation of safety, inclusion and reflection. Inspiration surrounds us every day, and it becomes our reality when we stay grounded in our purpose. For me, MSA has been a space to strengthen my identity, find inspiration and support others especially while being far from home. In the end, MSA is not just a club, but a true community. For me and many others, MSA has provided a space where we can grow, reflect and feel at home, even when we are far from it.
