Youssef University's Muslim Scholarship Fund

From my earliest memories, my father instilled in me the profound identity of being Muslim above all else, emphasizing that my faith transcends any other aspect of my existence, even my Palestinian heritage. My mother, hailing from Arraba, Jenin, fervently encouraged my siblings and me to embrace our roots, particularly in light of the injustices suffered by the men in her family, who were unjustly imprisoned by the IDF for daring to voice their opposition against the ethnic cleansing of our homeland. While my father's belief in the unity of Muslims regardless of race held merit, he failed to fully grasp the significance of being a Palestinian Muslim. Recalling my recent visit to al-Quds, I vividly recall the challenges I faced, but more importantly, the unwavering unity I witnessed among my fellow travelers. Navigating through a dilapidated fence and traversing an arduous, rugged path at the early hour of 4 a.m., exhaustion and determination filled the air. Yet, amidst the fatigue, a remarkable sense of camaraderie prevailed. People selflessly took turns leading the way, ensuring everyone's safety through each obstacle. This collective spirit embodied the essence of Islamic brotherhood. In the face of rejection at the gates, they would find alternate entrances and ensure everyone gained access. When encountering someone lacking water or sustenance for the journey, they willingly shared their own provisions. It is my belief that this epitomizes the Palestinian Muslim identity—a steadfastness and kindness toward our brothers and sisters, particularly when the world seems to conspire against them. It symbolized an unbreakable bond, a pledge of unity, and an unwavering commitment to one another. In Islam, along with kindness, the pursuit of knowledge holds immense significance. It teaches us to utilize the gifts bestowed upon us by Allah and to engage in critical thinking. Motivated by personal experiences of ageism, sexism, and racism within the medical field, witnessing the struggles of my uncle, who battled cancer while imprisoned in Gaza, and the loss of my grandfather due to doctors neglecting his present afflictions, I have resolved to dedicate myself to the noble path of nursing. My ambition is to serve as a pediatric nurse, imparting empathy and understanding to children who often find their voices silenced when expressing pain deemed as exaggerated. By addressing the ageist and sociocultural constraints that contribute to health disparities, I aim to embody the principles of equality and equity advocated by Islam, ensuring that each individual receives the care they deserve. Presently, I actively engage in volunteering efforts within both medical and Islamic communities. At a rehabilitation and nursing home center, I not only gain invaluable experience but also contribute to the well-being of the broader community. Additionally, as a member of my school's Muslim Student Association (MSA), I actively participate in organizing events such as Ramadan iftars, and I intend to remain dedicated to this cause. During Ramadan, I volunteered to care for children during the first eight Rakat of Taraweeh, allowing parents to focus on their prayers. Furthermore, I volunteered as a teacher's assistant during summer school at the local masjid. Sunday school played a pivotal role in my upbringing, nurturing my understanding of Islam. As Islam emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge, it also underscores the significance of imparting knowledge. Thus, I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community that has played an integral role in shaping my identity.