College is often a time when students search for a sense of belonging as they adjust to new academic, social and personal responsibilities. During this transition, many begin to explore their identity more deeply and for some, religion becomes a central part of that journey.
For students of faith, college is not only about gaining independence, but also about redefining what belief looks like in a new environment.
Pushpak Sunil Rane, a master’s student who practices Hinduism, describes his faith as both grounding and adaptable. Hinduism, a religion rooted in India, includes multiple gods and allows individuals to choose different forms of worship based on personal belief and tradition.
Rane shared how being a college student brings mixed experiences when it comes to practicing his religion. While he appreciates the diversity on campus, he also feels there is a limited understanding of Hinduism among others.
“I don’t follow everything as strictly, but I choose to be mindful and stay connected to my culture,” Rane said. “Being in a new country with fewer temples, I do prayers at home.”
For many students, religion is influenced by beliefs learned at home. However, for Laura Abelrahman, college marked a turning point in her spiritual journey. Now a practicing Christian, she shared how she did not follow any religion before attending college, but her beliefs changed significantly during her time at school.
“My religion is my top priority, even over school. I am a Christian, so I try to put him at the center of everything I do. I met Jesus when I came to Chico State, before I was basically an atheist and I didn’t like religion,” Abelrahman said.
Though each person has a different journey with religion, Abelrahman reflected on how her perspective has shifted over time. “I used to be one of those people who judged and misunderstood Christians,” she said. “But now I realize it’s not about what people do, it’s about God and what he does for me.”
Practicing faith can have its ups and downs as a college student when trying to balance academics and student life. This is particularly true during religious observances such as Ramadan, a holy month in the Islamic religion, when Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, focus on prayer and reflection and practice self-discipline and charity.
Maryam Yasin, a pre-nursing major, shared how balancing fasting with a demanding academic schedule can be difficult.
“I feel like the most challenging part is managing tests and exams while fasting because I don’t have much energy,” Yasin said. “So I usually wait until after I eat to study.”
Alongside the challenges of being a college student, practicing religion can sometimes feel difficult, especially when others may not fully understand.
Rane explained that misunderstandings about his faith often come from a lack of knowledge rather than intentional harm.
“Yes, it has happened, but I don’t blame people,” he said. “It’s usually because they don’t know much about the religion, which is fair. Some people have assumptions or ask questions, but that can also be a good thing because it helps spread awareness. I understand it’s not intentional, but it can feel isolating at times.”
Even with these challenges, students also described finding support and freedom to practice their faith on campus. Abelrahman said she feels comfortable expressing her beliefs openly.
“I pray very openly on campus and no one says anything and I am able to wear my cross necklace without any hardship,” she said.
Abelragman also shared about Challenge, an organization at Chico State that helps people connect with an authentic group of friends and explore Jesus.
“My religious group is Challenge. They have impacted my spiritual walk 100%. They were the reason I found Jesus and accepted him into my life,” Abelrahman said.
Like Challenge, there are other organizations on campus that help students stay connected to their culture and religion. Such as the Indian Student Association, which celebrates Indian traditions and creates a sense of community for students who are away from home.
“I’ve organized festivals like Navratri and Diwali, which are major celebrations in India that symbolize the victory of good over evil,” Rane said. “I’ve tried to keep the community together and make it feel like home, because it can be difficult being away from home and not being able to celebrate these festivals.”
As students continue to navigate college life, many find that faith becomes both a source of challenge and comfort, shaping how they connect with themselves, their communities and the world around them.
Arlette Valdivia can be reached at [email protected]
