Having lived in Muslim countries all my life, embarking on my academic journey at Georgetown University's Washington, DC, campus has been a transformative experience, weaving together diverse threads of religion, culture, politics, and personal growth. As I reflect on my time abroad, I have come to a richer understanding of the world and my place within it.
The first vivid memory I have on campus is being captivated by the strong scent of agarbatti (incense sticks) as I made my way to my dorm room in Leavey Hall, taking me back to my grandmother’s house when she would host religious gatherings. I peeked into the room on my left to find the Arati (Hindu religious practice) happening in the Dharmic center. The familiarity of scent intrigued me to attend the Arati the following Sunday. Since then, I took advantage of the religious diversity on campus and the numerous spaces for different groups to practice their faith, to learn more about their practices. Diwali, for instance, was fascinating as I was able to experience the rich intersection of religion and culture that was represented through music and dances.
A large gathering of people seated on chairs and on the floor at a Diwali cultural event.
The Muslim community provided me with a sense of familiarity within this new environment I was in. Attending prayers and engaging in dhikr at the mosque became a powerful conduit for connecting with the Muslim community. It not only served as a space for spiritual nourishment but also facilitated social cohesion through various events. The intersection of religion and culture, epitomized by frequent retreats, introduced me to new dimensions of communal bonding. The retreat to the Calcagnini Contemplative Centre in Bluemont, Virginia, provided a unique opportunity to step away from the bustling city life, immerse myself in nature, and engage in meaningful reflection.
Three individuals in traditional South Asian attire pose in front of a set of double doors with glass windows.
The celebration of cultural and religious events at Georgetown has reinforced the idea that diversity is not just tolerated but celebrated. The harmonious blending of traditions during Thanksgiving, Diwali, and other festivities demonstrates the richness that emerges when individuals from diverse backgrounds come together in a spirit of mutual respect and appreciation. This lesson encouraged me to actively seek out opportunities for cultural exchange and celebration, recognizing the beauty that arises when people from different walks of life share their unique traditions.
The interior of the chapel at Georgetown University, with a cross in the middle and colorful images on the windows.
As I navigate through the lessons learned during my time at Georgetown, a series of valuable insights crystallize, shaping my perspective on engaging with difference both domestically and internationally. One fundamental lesson is the importance of embracing and celebrating religious diversity. Georgetown's commitment to providing spaces for various religious practices has underscored the significance of fostering an inclusive environment where individuals from diverse faith backgrounds can coexist harmoniously. This lesson will guide me in approaching diversity with an open heart and a genuine curiosity, recognizing the richness that emerges when different perspectives intersect. Embracing religious diversity, recognizing the power of civic engagement, understanding the complexity of geopolitical conflicts, fostering interfaith collaboration, and celebrating cultural richness are lessons that will accompany me on my continued journey of personal and intellectual growth.
Areesha Fatima (SFS’25) is from Lahore, Pakistan. She is a junior in the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University in Qatar majoring in international economics with a minor in justice and peace studies. During the fall 2023 semester, she is studying abroad on the Georgetown University Main Campus in Washington, DC. In addition to participating in some of the events hosted by the wide range of clubs that Georgetown offers, she is volunteering with the Center for Social Justice’s HOME program. She is excited for the exposure and new experiences that her semester abroad has in store and is looking forward to sharing her reflections through the Doyle Global Dialogue!
