Exam season -advice for students.
Dear Students (and my daughters)
I understand that things can seem pretty overwhelming right now. You feel under pressure, maybe from school, maybe from home, (hopefully not), maybe from your peers to get the best grades. But understand that Allah swt likes moderation, so be mindful not to be excessive. You are so much more than just a grade, remember that. There is no doubt that it is good to be educated.
In fact, the first ayah to be revealed was :
“Read! In the name of your Lord who created “ (al Alaq 1)
And the Prophet SAW said:
Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim.
Source: Sunan Ibn Mājah 224, Grade: Sahih
But this can’t be at the detriment of your Deen. Remember first and foremost, you are a servant of Allah. Be mindful of this. Your identity is that of a Muslim, so ensure that your day and your life reflects this ALL the time. You are not like the disbelievers. You do not require a title in order to feel valid, you are loved and validated by Allah swt always.
So how should a muslim student navigate through exam season?
Don’t neglect your Deen for your studies, manage your time well, incorporating Salah, worship, dua, leisure and family time.
Continue your Quran and islamic studies during exam season. This will be the much needed stress relief and rejuvenation your soul needs.
Don’t give in to negative self talk - this is from Shaytaan
Manage your family’s expectations but be open and honest if you need help and support
Limit your screen time as this will drain you
Be sensible with your studies - utilize the time after Fajr well instead of staying up until 2:30 and then missing Fajr.
Connect with Allah swt through dua - especially at Tahajjud time.
Narrated Abu Huraira:
Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) (p.b.u.h) said, "Our Lord, the Blessed, the Superior, comes every night down on the nearest Heaven to us when the last third of the night remains, saying: "Is there anyone to invoke Me, so that I may respond to invocation? Is there anyone to ask Me, so that I may grant him his request? Is there anyone seeking My forgiveness, so that I may forgive him?"
Be realistic with your study goals.
If you have studied to the best of your ability, made dua, then have Tawakkul and leave it to Allah. Trust that whatever you get is from Allah and is better for you.
May Allah swt grant you success in this world and the Hereafter.
