Ramadan is the holiest and most celebrated month among Muslims around the globe. But Muslim students, however, run into unique challenges that could potentially impact their academic progress. For some students, fasting could leave the students mentally and physically exhausted, leading to more inadequate performance and unhappy test results. Lack of caffeine intake, disruption of sleep schedules are the most common struggles between students.
“Where there is a will, there is a way.” Pauline Kael
After good ol' research from both scholarly articles and Educational Muslim outlets, we could develop the ultimate student guide during Ramadan.
1. Planning
Planning is everything; you still must plan out your day just like how you were doing it every day of the year. The timetable is the best and most efficient way possible. Schedule organizing your relevant coursework, revision, rest, daily exercise, prayer, and meals in the most efficient way possible. By planning in advance, you will know how you best revise and organize your work early on, which should help you maximize your efficiency. We recommend following the 25mins rule by Francesco Cirillo. The Pomodoro Technique is a time management system that encourages people to work with their time—rather than against it. This 25mins rule is followed by immediate 5mins rest.
This method will help you avoid procrastinating, be productive, create urgency and help you stay focused on any task you are tackling.
2. Check when your exams are
It is crucial to know your exam time and dates. Pulling an all-nighter while fasting in the day might impact your level of sharpness during the exam. Having a well-constructed study session in the day then followed by a review session one at night before and one before the exam is the best practice as you give your body the rest it needs and your cognitive energy.
3. Eating
When it comes to breaking fast, try to eat a balanced meal. Again, planning for this is essential. This would be a meal that contains the proper proportions of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and water necessary to maintain good health.
And don't forget your Suhoor, try to eat more grains and don't drink too much water before going back to bed. Your body won't store more H2O than it needs. You're not a camel.
4. Spiritual power
You might feel like you're missing out on the spiritual benefits of Ramadan because you don't have time for extra prayers, Quran recitation, or charity work. Don't forget that revising is spiritual too! Educating yourself is also an essential part of religion.
Revise with good intentions: increase your knowledge and make your teachers and loved ones proud of you. And remember that sometimes small gestures are most valuable.
5. Rest
Spend some time with friends and family. Don't spin your wheels too much, and don't lax out too far. Modesty is key.
vRealm team is proud to welcome the holy month of Ramadan and wishes all Muslims a Ramadan Kareem.
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Ramadan Kareem!