Though they sometimes have to deal with misconceptions, many OHS Mulsim students find balance and enjoyment in their faith.

“It’s wonderful being able to practice my own religion. I definitely feel a huge connection with my religion,” Sham Qattan (11) said. 

As many OHS Muslim students live a simple life, some students recently chose to wear the hijab over the summer. 

“I focused more on myself and looked at myself in the mirror, and I was like, ‘I’m gonna look good in a scarf,’” Jineen Hamdallah (11) said.

Unfortunately, some stereotypes and certain events throughout history have caused some misconceptions about the Muslim community. 

“A misconception is that we bomb people’s houses. It’s not true. We don’t do that. It’s all a misconception,” Sahnam Mohabbat (11) said. 

Besides dealing with some negative comments and stereotypes, most Muslim students look at the positive side of their faith. 

“I love going to iftar (when Muslims can break their fast for the day) with all of my friends and hanging out,” Alisa Dzekic (9) said. “It’s so fun.”

From many different experiences and stories, one thing that most Muslim students will have is a connection through Ramadan. 

“We fast during Ramadan for one to feel how the people less fortunate feel,” Huda Hamdullah (9) said, “and it’s really beneficial for yourself, your mind and your body.”

To many Muslim students at OHS, Islam is a form of meditation and how they take a break from the busy world for a few minutes. 

“I love it so much,” Jenna Jabar (10) said, “and the hijab became a part of who I am, and practicing Islam is a beautiful way to live life.”