Selaam alaykum,I am university student in the west. I am having difficulty dealing with my classmates. Alhamdulillah I am practicing Muslim. I pray 5 times a day and I try to read Quran at least twice a weak. But I couldn’t handle sitting in the class with non believers or non righteous people. They way they treat me as a muslim and they see me down because I am serious and I don’t have life style like them. In group tasks they talk about party, alcohol,zina etc.... and it is affecting my imaan. I am experiencing fear to talk in the class or a group students because they belittle me in their eyes. I couldn’t find a practicing Muslim student like me. I am depressing time after time. So please, give me an advice or tell me how to deal with this?Selaam aleykum,

All perfect praise be to Allah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.

What you mentioned about the way your classmates deal with you and the way they look down at you because of your religion, or any other reason, is one of many inevitable disadvantages that face those who reside in such countries.

Additionally, the desires and temptations to which a Muslim is exposed subject him to temptation in his religion, especially if one is studying in a mixed university, and this is generally the case. Hence, you should reconsider your residence in that country.

If you must study in that country, then look for a university where you may find students who would be of help to you (in your faith); if not, then fear Allah and be patient, and busy yourself with what can benefit you in your religion and your worldly matters.

You should train yourself to be able to confront people and talk to them. This is something that a person can acquire by practice. At the beginning you will find it hard, but after that, you will find it easy and it becomes a habit for you.

You must strive to repel the inferior feeling you have, and remember that you are superior to them by virtue of your faith.

Allah Says (what means): {So do not weaken and do not grieve, and you will be superior if you are [true] believers.} [Quran 3:139]

If you follow this procedure, you may soon find helpers and supporters who would stand by your side and support you.

You should not forget to mention Allah and supplicate Him as much as possible. You should be keen on staying in touch with your fellow Muslim brothers in Islamic centers and other institutions to consult them, because a Muslim needs the opinion of his brothers.

May Allah enable us and you to do all that which is good, and protect us from evil and bad acts.

Allah knows best.