I was only worried about one thing the day before school started. It wasn’t the fact that I would be living with someone I didn’t know for the first time ever, or that I would have to start making friends all over again or that I didn’t know what to expect from college classes. OK, maybe I worried a little bit about these issues. But mainly, my mind was occupied by the fact that I would have to fast for Ramadan during the first month of school. Previously, I had expected the first month would mean settling down and getting my bearings on college life. I wasn’t really sure how putting the two together would work out.

In preparation for what was to come, I brought food for the morning (Sahoor), dates (the fruit) to break my fast and tea (my anti-drug). I also warned my roommate so she knew what to expect. Though I was fully equipped for the start of Ramadan, nothing could have primed me for the thirst factor. With no air conditioning to save me and the sun beating down during the football games, I was less than enthused.

Beyond that, more everyday tasks became a little more difficult. Studying after class became a futile venture, since it was too hard to concentrate. Having a social life was hard to maintain because every activity involved eating. That is not to say that I didn’t go out, but it wasn’t as often or as fun as I would have liked. Mid-day naps became my new habit. I complained to my brother about this point, and he jokingly told me how his college friends used to sleep all day (through class, mind you) until Iftaar (the evening meal), doing homework only at night. Similarly, I was envious of those who went home every weekend because they lived close by.

I did eventually figure out a system. One of my hallmates who lives two doors away from me was also fasting 15 hours each day, so we decided to eat together in the hallway during Sahoor. By joining the Muslim Students' Association I surrounded myself with others who were fasting and going to the Iftaars (yes, free food). For example, today’s 5 a.m. breakfast at Denny’s was a highlight of the month. Though I missed fasting at home — having pakoras with chutney and chaat right by my side — this support made all the difference.

All these hardships have a more important purpose behind them. During this month, the Angel Gabriel delivered the Quran to Prophet Muhammad. This month is a month to be more spiritual, to be the best person you can be and to practice self-discipline. This is the time to pray for yourself, forgiveness and the future. The purpose of fasting isn’t just about abstaining from eating. It is also about refraining from bad and sinful habits.

These aspects of Ramadan can be easily ignored, especially in college. But there are ways to incorporate them. For instance, I brought a Quran to college with me, and I've been trying to read a few lines some mornings. On my iPod, I have recitations of the Quran by Abdul Rahman Al Sudais and Saud Al Shuraim that I sometimes listen to on my way to class. Even simple acts of kindness, like helping someone out, giving charity or forgiving someone, are enough.

With Ramadan coming to a close on Oct. 1, perhaps I will be able to actually study during the day and have a little bit more fun in college. I will always keep in mind, though, the importance of religion, self-discipline and the kindness of heart. That is how I started out the year and that is how I will end it.

Seher Chowhan is an LSA freshman.