u/slytherin_za

Hi everyone! I'm applying to MPH programs for Fall 2027 through SOPHAS and had a question about recommendation letters. (It's been few years since I graduated)

Some of my recommenders are former professors or supervisors, and I'm not sure whether they still have access to their institutional or professional email addresses. They may need to use personal email addresses instead. One of my former supervisors did want me to use her personal one, though I'm awaiting on if she has an alternative.

I've noticed that some schools specifically request professional or institutional email addresses for recommenders.

For those who've dealt with this:

* Were you able to use a recommender's personal email through SOPHAS?

* Did you have to contact individual schools to request an exception?

* Did using a personal email cause any issues with submitting or verifying recommendation letters?

I'd really appreciate hearing about your experiences, especially from anyone who applied recently. Thank you!

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As-salamu alaykum,

This is a genuine question, and I'm asking out of curiosity rather than to criticize anyone.

I've noticed that many practicing brothers describe themselves as religious or say that they're looking for a religious wife, but then also mention that they're open to both hijabis and non-hijabis.

I'm trying to understand the thought process behind this.

If hijab is generally understood to be a religious obligation, what makes you equally open to someone who observes it and someone who doesn't? Is it because you prioritize other aspects of religiosity more? Do you view hijab as a personal journey? Or is it simply not a major factor in your decision?

I also wonder whether this unintentionally puts hijabis at a disadvantage. A woman in hijab presents herself differently from a woman without hijab, so appearance-based attraction can naturally be affected. From that perspective, it sometimes feels like hijabis fulfill an additional religious practice while also being compared directly with women who aren't covering in the same way. Also, if a women is struggling I do understand as it's a journey and battle of nafs and may allah be pleased with us all and aid us in dunya and akhirah. I also do know a woman could be closer in the eyes of Allah regardless of her appearance.

To be clear, I don't think it's wrong for anyone to have preferences. Everyone is entitled to what they're attracted to. I'm simply trying to understand the brother's pov.

I'd especially appreciate thoughtful and respectful responses from brothers who have had this mindset themselves.

Jazakum Allahu khayran.

Assalamu Alaikum sisters,

I'm trying to lose weight and could really use some motivation from women who have actually been through it.

I know the basics: calorie deficit, exercise, consistency but I struggle with staying motivated and not giving up after a few weeks. A lot of times I emotionally eat😞 and other times I just feel overwhelmed by how long the journey seems

I'd love to hear:

What helped you lose weight and keep it off?

Did you follow a specific diet or just focus on portion control?

What workouts did you enjoy?

Are there any apps that genuinely helped you stay consistent with tracking calories, workouts, or habits?

If you're a hijabi, how did you manage exercising comfortably, especially if you mostly worked out at home or in women-only spaces?

I'm not looking for a quick fix, I just want to build healthier habits and feel stronger and more confident, inshaAllah. (Tho sometimes i wanna lose it all quickly)

JazakAllah khair in advance. May Allah reward you all for sharing your experiences. 🤍