Between Classes: Where Students Seek, Reflect, and Grow

McMaster Muslim Students’ Association
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University moves fast. Faith takes intention. Between Classes is a podcast for Muslim students navigating faith, identity, and university life in the West. Created by students and hosted by the McMaster Muslim Students’ Association, Between Classes brings together students, shuyookh, scholars, and community leaders for thoughtful, honest, and practical conversations rooted in Islam. From balancing deen and dunya, mental health, discipline, and relationships — to navigating modern challenges on campus and beyond — each episode connects Islamic guidance with real student experiences. These aren’t lectures. They’re conversations. Real questions. Real struggles. Real growth. Whether you’re heading to class, studying late, or reflecting between responsibilities, Between Classes is a space where Muslim students pause, seek clarity, and grow — together.

Episodes

  1. Moving to University as a Muslim Student | Imam Dirie Ahmed

    May 9

    Moving to University as a Muslim Student | Imam Dirie Ahmed

    Starting university comes with new freedom, new challenges, and major life changes. In this episode, Imam Dirie Ahmed shares advice for Muslim students navigating the transition to university — balancing independence, friendships, identity, and faith while adjusting to a completely new environment. A conversation about staying grounded while entering a new chapter of life.

    53 min
  2. Brotherhood & Sisterhood in Islam: Finding Real Community on Campus | Imam Khalid Latif

    May 4

    Brotherhood & Sisterhood in Islam: Finding Real Community on Campus | Imam Khalid Latif

    University can feel isolating — even when you’re surrounded by people. In this episode, Imam Khalid Latif discusses what true brotherhood and sisterhood look like in Islam, and how Muslim students can build genuine, supportive relationships on campus. A conversation about community, connection, and not going through your journey alone.

    1h 19m
  3. Walking Where the Prophet ﷺ Walked: A Journey That Changes You | Shaykh Mikaeel Ahmed Smith

    Apr 16

    Walking Where the Prophet ﷺ Walked: A Journey That Changes You | Shaykh Mikaeel Ahmed Smith

    We learn about the Prophet ﷺ — but how often do we feel truly connected to him? In this episode, Shaykh Mikaeel Ahmed Smith reflects on what it means to walk where the Prophet ﷺ walked, and how that experience can deepen our relationship with his life, character, and message. A conversation about moving from knowledge to connection — and carrying that connection into how we live.

    29 min
  4. Honor Your Parents… Even When It’s Hard | Imam Tom Facchine

    Apr 6

    Honor Your Parents… Even When It’s Hard | Imam Tom Facchine

    Parents hold a central place in Islam — but what happens when the relationship isn’t easy? In this episode of Between Classes, we sit down with Imam Tom Facchine to talk about the importance of parents in Islam and how Muslim students can navigate real-life challenges, misunderstandings, and tension while still honoring their parents. This is an honest and much-needed conversation for anyone trying to balance deen, emotions, and family dynamics. In this episode, we discuss: • The status and rights of parents in Islam • What obedience really means (and its limits) • Navigating disagreements and difficult relationships • Balancing respect with personal growth and boundaries • Dealing with frustration, guilt, and expectations • Maintaining ihsan even when it’s hard If you’ve ever struggled in your relationship with your parents, this episode will give you clarity, perspective, and guidance. 🎧 Watch/listen on all platforms: YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more 🔗 tinyurl.com/betweenclasses Stay tuned for more conversations built for Muslim students navigating faith, family, and real life.

    57 min
  5. How Muslim Students Should Start Seeking Sacred Knowledge | Shaykh AbdulNasir Jangda

    Mar 7

    How Muslim Students Should Start Seeking Sacred Knowledge | Shaykh AbdulNasir Jangda

    Many Muslims want to seek sacred knowledge — but the biggest question is where do you actually begin? In this episode of Between Classes, we sit down with Shaykh Abdulnasir Jangda, founder and president of Qalam Institute, to talk about how Muslim students — especially those living in the West — can begin their journey of seeking Islamic knowledge. For many students balancing university, career ambitions, and daily responsibilities, the idea of studying Islam seriously can feel overwhelming. This conversation breaks down how to start, what matters most, and the mindset every student should have when beginning this journey. In this episode we discuss: • Why seeking sacred knowledge is essential for every Muslim • The biggest mistakes beginners make when starting • How Muslim students in the West can begin their journey • Balancing university life with Islamic learning • The importance of sincerity and intention in seeking knowledge • Practical first steps anyone can take today Whether you're just starting your journey or trying to reconnect with learning your religion, this episode offers guidance, clarity, and direction. 🎧 Watch or listen to Between Classes on all platforms: YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms 🔗 Watch/listen here: tinyurl.com/betweenclasses Stay tuned for more conversations built for Muslim students navigating university, faith, and life.

    54 min
  6. Islamophobia on Campus: What Muslim Students Face and How to Respond | Shaykh Hosam Helal

    Feb 7

    Islamophobia on Campus: What Muslim Students Face and How to Respond | Shaykh Hosam Helal

    What does it mean to be Muslim on campus today? In this episode of Between Classes, we sit down with Shaykh Hosam Helal, Imam at ISNA Canada, for an honest conversation about Islamophobia, prejudice, and navigating university life as a Muslim student. From subtle bias to overt discrimination, many Muslim students struggle to balance identity, confidence, and faith while facing real-world challenges. This episode explores how to respond with strength, wisdom, and prophetic character — without losing yourself in the process. In this episode, we discuss: The reality of Islamophobia on campusMicroaggressions, stereotypes, and navigating difficult environmentsMaintaining Muslim identity with confidenceResponding to prejudice with wisdom and dignityMental resilience and emotional strengthAdvice for Muslim students balancing deen and dunyaIf you’ve ever felt misunderstood, judged, or pressured to hide your identity — this conversation is for you. Listen on all platforms: tinyurl.com/betweenclasses Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms. Subscribe for more conversations built for Muslim students navigating university, identity, and real life — Between Classes.

    1h 12m
  7. How to Beat Laziness & Stay Disciplined as a Muslim Student | Dr. Reda Bedeir

    Jan 28

    How to Beat Laziness & Stay Disciplined as a Muslim Student | Dr. Reda Bedeir

    Why do we know what we should do… but still struggle to do it? In this episode of Between Classes, we sit down with Dr. Reda Bedeir to unpack the Battle of the Nafs — the inner struggle behind laziness, inconsistency, procrastination, and burnout that so many Muslim students face. This is a powerful conversation about discipline in Islam, self-control, and how to build habits that last — spiritually, academically, and personally. In this episode, we discuss: What the nafs is and why it resists disciplineThe Islamic root of laziness and procrastinationWhy motivation fades — and what actually replaces itBuilding discipline through worship, structure, and intentionConsistency in salah, studies, and daily habitsFighting burnout while staying productivePractical steps Muslim students can apply immediatelyIf you’re struggling to stay consistent, falling behind in school, or constantly battling your own habits — this episode will change how you see discipline. Tune in for more real conversations built for Muslim students navigating university, faith, and life — Between Classes.

    1h 14m
  8. Halal Hustle for Muslim Students: Money, Ambition & Barakah | Ustadh Zaniar Ahmad

    Jan 25

    Halal Hustle for Muslim Students: Money, Ambition & Barakah | Ustadh Zaniar Ahmad

    Can you hustle, build a career, and make money without compromising your deen? In this episode of Between Classes, we sit down with Ustadh Zaniar Ahmad for a real conversation on Halal Hustle — what it means for Muslim students trying to balance school, work, ambition, and faith in today’s world. We talk about staying driven while keeping your intentions clean, avoiding haram income, and chasing success with barakah, not burnout. In this episode, we cover: What “Halal Hustle” actually means in IslamMaking money as a Muslim student without crossing linesAmbition vs. attachment to dunyaRizq, barakah, and trusting Allah while still working hardCareer pressure, burnout, and staying groundedPractical mindset shifts for Muslim students in the WestSponsor: MSU Elections (@msu_election) This episode is sponsored by MSU Elections. Voting is open from Jan 27–29 — make sure your voice is heard and take part in building your campus community. Follow updates here: @msu_election Check out Ustadh Zaniar’s Project: Meezan App Ustadh Zaniar also runs Meezan App — a project designed to help Muslims with practical tools and resources. Link: https://www.meezanapp.com Tune in for more conversations built for Muslim students navigating university, identity, and real life — Between Classes.

    1h 6m
  9. Don’t Waste University: How to Make Your Years Actually Count | Dr. Nazir Khan

    12/31/2025

    Don’t Waste University: How to Make Your Years Actually Count | Dr. Nazir Khan

    University is more than lectures, deadlines, and grades — it is a formative season that shapes your identity, habits, and priorities. In this episode of Between Classes, we sit down with Dr. Nazir Khan to explore how students can intentionally maximize their time in university without burning out or losing sight of what truly matters. From managing time and expectations, to balancing academics with faith, community, and personal growth, this conversation offers grounded advice for students who want their university years to be meaningful — not just busy. Whether you’re in your first year or about to graduate, this episode will help you rethink how you approach your time on campus.

    49 min
  10. Balancing Deen & Dunya as a Muslim Student (When Life Gets Overwhelming) | Ust. Danyal Khan

    12/17/2025

    Balancing Deen & Dunya as a Muslim Student (When Life Gets Overwhelming) | Ust. Danyal Khan

    University life is demanding — deadlines, careers, expectations, and constant pressure to do more. But how do Muslim students balance deen and dunya without burning out or feeling distant from Allah? In this first episode of Between Classes, we sit down with Ust. Danyal Khan to unpack the real struggles Muslim students face in the West — and how to approach faith with clarity, balance, and intention. In this episode, we discuss: Why feeling overwhelmed is so common among Muslim studentsThe pressure to “have it all together” — spiritually and academicallyWhat balance actually means in Islam (and what it doesn’t)Practical ways to protect your iman during busy semestersHow to reframe productivity through an Islamic lensSmall habits that help keep Allah at the center of student lifeThis conversation is honest, reflective, and grounded in both lived experience and Islamic guidance — meant to meet students where they are. Whether you’re navigating exams, internships, or questions about purpose, this episode is for you. 🎧 Available on all major platforms 🔗 tinyurl.com/between-classes New episodes release 2–3 times every month, in sha Allah.

    1h 15m
  • 10 Episodes

About

University moves fast. Faith takes intention. Between Classes is a podcast for Muslim students navigating faith, identity, and university life in the West. Created by students and hosted by the McMaster Muslim Students’ Association, Between Classes brings together students, shuyookh, scholars, and community leaders for thoughtful, honest, and practical conversations rooted in Islam. From balancing deen and dunya, mental health, discipline, and relationships — to navigating modern challenges on campus and beyond — each episode connects Islamic guidance with real student experiences. These aren’t lectures. They’re conversations. Real questions. Real struggles. Real growth. Whether you’re heading to class, studying late, or reflecting between responsibilities, Between Classes is a space where Muslim students pause, seek clarity, and grow — together.

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