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Welcome Class of 2025

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Welcome Class of 2025

As-salamu alaikum and welcome to Stanford from the Markaz Resource Center!

The Markaz is an inclusive center that supports students who identify with or are interested in Muslim experiences both here and around the world. As a part of our mission, Markaz staff is here to help you navigate New Student Orientation. We have compiled a list of community-specific resources and events for you on this webpage to help you get settled.

Welcome letter from Frosh Experience Coordinator Lara and the Markaz Directors.

Markaz Open House (September 14, Tuesday from 2-3 PM): ​Learn about the center’s resources and programs, meet staff and other community members. We will have a special snack, some swag, and a smile waiting for you! All are welcome -- families too!

Markaz Community Lunch (September 19, Sunday at 11:30 AM): Take a break with the Markaz! Relax with us on the lawn, make some art, get your name in Arabic calligraphy. At noon, we will enjoy a halal lunch. RSVP here.


Meet your Frosh Experience Coordinator: Lara Hafez, '24

Lara Hafez Smaller

Hi everyone! My name is Lara (she/her/hers), and I am a rising sophomore majoring in Political Science (potentially), with a minor in Human Rights. I am a Palestinian-American from Rancho Cucamonga, California, and Al-Khalil, Palestine. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out (lhafez15@stanford.edu).

Read Lara's "I am Stanford" post!


Muslim Life at Stanford: A Student Resource Guide (2021-2022 edition)

Do you have questions about Muslim life at Stanford? We’ve prepared a resource guide for students interested in learning more. In the guide, you’ll find religious resources and information about the Markaz, the Muslim Student Union, and the Abbasi Program in Islamic Studies at Stanford. Download the Muslim Resource Guide.


 Frosh Programs: What you can expect this year

Every year, the Markaz organizes a variety of events and opportunities for first-year students. The Markaz Frosh Intern Program is an opportunity for first-year students to actively engage in community building, advocacy and allyship at the Markaz. Interns learn about the center’s mission while working with Markaz staff to organize programming and resources.


A welcome message from some of our favorite student organizations! 

Featuring Stanford African Students Association (SASA), the Arab Students Association at Stanford (ASAS), Stanford South Asian Society (SASS) and Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP).

To skip ahead: Find SASA at 0:08, ASAS at 4:01, SASS at 5:28, and SJP at 7:12.