By: Sahar Yousofi
February 27, 2025
At Saint Martin’s University, a place rooted in Benedictine values, diversity is more than just a word—it is a lived experience. This culture of acceptance is reflected in the experiences of students like Nada Alattar, a Palestinian American hijabi woman in her final year pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science. As the secretary of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), Nada plays an active role in campus life, embodying the university’s commitment to diversity.
This interview explores Nada’s journey as a hijabi student at SMU, her personal connection to the hijab, and her hopes for greater awareness and representation on campus.
The Hijab: A Personal Journey and a Crown of Strength
For Nada, the hijab is more than a covering; it is a declaration of faith, a shield of protection, and a source of empowerment.
“My hijab represents my identity as a practicing Muslim woman. It is also a sign of grace, a personal chapter of Quranic guidance, and I see it as a crown on my head,” she shared.
She began wearing the hijab at the age of 12, initially inspired by her mother and female relatives. Over time, she developed a deeper understanding of its meaning and grew into her identity with confidence.
“At first, I didn’t really understand why we wear it; I just wanted to copy my mom and my female cousins. However, as I began to learn more about my religion, I started feeling confident and pleased with myself as a hijabi woman.”
From an Islamic perspective, the hijab is not simply a piece of fabric; it is a way to protect one’s inner self from negative energies. Islam teaches that modesty is a form of spiritual armor, shielding individuals from the harmful distractions and temptations of the material world.
From a metaphysical standpoint, this aligns with the concept of Chakras (چاکرا)—the energy centers in the human body. Many spiritual traditions believe that external influences can disrupt the flow of energy within us, impacting our emotional and physical well-being. The hijab, in this sense, functions as a protective barrier, preventing unwanted external energies from interfering with a woman’s inner peace.
“Hijab is to protect women from the bad energies and vibes that are out there,” Nada added. “It allows me to control what energy I let in and keeps my focus on my personal and spiritual growth.”
This concept is beautifully reflected in Islamic teachings, where Hijab, in its true essence, is not about restriction but empowerment. It allows women to control how they present themselves to the world, ensuring their value is recognized for their intellect, character, and faith rather than just physical appearance.
A Welcoming Campus Experience
Nada’s journey at SMU has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the university’s commitment to genuine inclusivity.
“My experience as a hijabi at Saint Martin’s has been very positive. I never felt out of place or insecure about wearing it. I felt welcomed and supported in this community.”
Unlike many universities where hijabi students may struggle with acceptance, Nada has not encountered misconceptions or challenges related to her hijab on campus.
“No, I didn’t face any challenges or misconceptions about wearing the hijab on campus; on the contrary, I felt welcomed.”
The university provides spaces that accommodate religious needs, reinforcing its commitment to supporting Muslim students.
“Saint Martin’s community is a safe, inclusive, and supportive place for Muslim students. I had no trouble accessing the prayer room or quiet rooms when needed.”
This level of inclusivity ensures that students from all backgrounds feel comfortable practicing their faith while being active members of the community.
Representation and Empowerment
Nada believes that SMU fosters an environment where hijabi students can feel represented and valued.
“Yes, I do. Saint Martin’s University is a welcoming place for all students from diverse backgrounds, and being a hijabi Muslim does not prevent me from feeling represented as a student at SMU.”
However, misunderstandings about the hijab persist beyond campus, and Nada hopes to challenge these misconceptions.
“For me, nothing is more important than staying true to my identity, and the hijab is a fundamental part of that identity as a Muslim woman. It should not be seen as a weakness; rather, it is a source of strength that empowers us and makes us feel confident about who we are.”
Her message to those unfamiliar with the hijab emphasizes that it is not a limitation but a personal and spiritual choice that reflects confidence and self-respect.
Encouraging other hijabi students to embrace their identity, Nada offers words of affirmation.
“I encourage them to wear the hijab proudly; you are beautiful, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!”
Building a Stronger Muslim Community on Campus
Connecting with other Muslim students has been a meaningful experience for Nada, reinforcing the sense of belonging within SMU’s diverse student body.
“I was able to connect to two Muslim exchange students in the spring semester of 2025. We’ve talked about Ramadan (the month of fasting) and what programs we can make to make Ramadan easier for us during the day.”
These connections provide opportunities to share traditions, support one another, and find ways to make religious practices more accessible within the academic setting.
A Vision for Greater Inclusivity
While Nada appreciates the inclusivity at SMU, she believes further improvements can enhance visibility and support for hijabi students.
“I would like to see more prayer rooms spread out across campus. Additionally, I would like to see more posters of hijabs to raise awareness about hijabi women.”
Representation is not just about numbers—it is about visibility. Creating awareness through campus initiatives can further educate the student body on the meaning and significance of the hijab.
Nada hopes to empower other hijabi students while also educating non-Muslim students about the hijab’s significance in Islam.
“I hope to empower other hijabi students and spread awareness among all students who view hijab as a barrier or believe that hijabi women are oppressed and unable to pursue education like others. It’s important to educate people about why Muslim women wear hijab and how they live their lives while embracing it.”
A Message of Strength and Belonging
As Nada prepares to complete her final year at SMU, her words serve as an inspiration to hijabi students and beyond.
“Thank you for doing this interview. I hope all Hijabi Muslim women find confidence in wearing their hijabs.”
Her journey reflects the values of Saint Martin’s University—where diversity is not just a policy but a lived reality. Through her voice and presence, Nada is paving the way for future hijabi students, ensuring that SMU continues to be a place where everyone, regardless of faith or background, can thrive.
With Ramadan approaching tomorrow (March 1st), warm wishes are extended to the Muslim community for a blessed and fulfilling Ramadan Mubarak.
The Belltower 