In 2008, U.S. News & World Reports ranked Benedictine 13th in the Midwest and sixth in Illinois for ethnic diversity.

"We welcome and value every student  Muslim, Black, Hispanic, Asian, Caucasian because each is a gift, says Dr. William Carroll, president of Benedictine University. "Our diversity, which includes a large Muslim population, reflects what is happening in American society and in the world community. Preparing students who know how to interact with individuals without regard to their ethnic, religious or racial background is critical in the 21^st century."

But with such a diverse student body, misunderstanding is inevitable, Abusoud says.  

For instance, between Muslim and non-Muslim roommates there is sometimes a conflict with the morning prayer, says Abusoud. The Morning Prayer is at dawn time. The other roommate may be disturbed by the noise. Visitation by the opposite sex is also a challenge in that interaction between Muslim males and females is regulated.

"We were able to work through and deal with it as any other roommate conflict with students with two different lifestyles," Abusoud says.

Says Siddiqui: "Dealing with non-Muslims is not much of a challenge, I have friends who are African-American, Latino and White. As far as the opposite gender is concerned, we keep our limitations in mind."

The Muslim Students' Association spends the bulk of its time educating and building bridges with other groups.

"We promote understanding of Islamic principles and their ideals. During Islamic Awareness week, there are tables with free literature about Islam, games, movies and workshops to promote positive understanding of Islam," says Abusoud. "I believe that education, awareness and programming are the only ways to educate the communities about Islam and Muslim."