During the formative college and graduate school years, students learn more about themselves as well as their belief systems. This learning can be critical in the development of informed orientations towards Islam.

Cornell’s students hail from every state in the U.S., and as many as one-sixth come from over 120 countries around the world. Graduates go on to occupy leadership positions in both the public and private sectors. The impact of a Cornell education is global, and graduates carry their viewpoints with them into their careers and communities. Thus, it is vital that students leave Cornell better equipped to understand Islam and Muslims.

Muslim students must balance religious life and academic demands, as well as make important personal choices. They may be faced with questions about the rationale behind Islamic viewpoints. Occasionally, students may need help coping with personal trials and tragedies, or coordinating community responses to current events.

Non-Muslim students face analogous challenges, and may also have questions regarding Islam and Muslims. A Muslim chaplain will provide individual counseling and mentoring as well as organize campus programming to address such issues.

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