Challenges and coping mechanisms of Muslim students in a Catholic higher education institution

Being in an unfamiliar situation contributes stifling experiences to a student. He/she needs to adjust to his/her new environment. This study dealt with the challenges and coping mechanisms of Muslim college students in a Catholic higher education institution (HEI). The aim for this study is to help those coming from other faiths adjust well in the college run by Catholic administrators. The researchers selected some Muslim students in one of the Higher Education Institution in Region IX, Philippines The researchers employed the phenomenological qualitative design to highlight the pattern of experiences of the students. Based on the findings, there are ten themes regarding the challenges experienced by the research participants namely: compulsory attendance in religious activities, attending classes on religious education subjects, not being able to pray, having a class on Tuesdays and Fridays: 11:30 – 1PM, minimal Struggles, teachers who are not considering the views of others, very early activities, disagreement with parents, language barrier and adjustment. Some of their coping mechanisms are respecting the policies of the school, being absent from religious activities and explaining to the authorities. Therefore, it is best for the students to study when they have a welcoming environment in the school.