by Ellen Kirkness ’12

Cliché nonconformists separate themselves from their peers through music or art, academic or athletic commitment. We often overlook those who distinguish themselves from their classmates through religious practice.

“My religion guides me in my life and in my lifestyle,” said sophomore Addi Fullmer, a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints where she practices Mormonism.

Although Fullmer has no difficulty making friends, her devotion to Mormonism has, at times, made her feel somewhat isolated. However, devotion and trust have allowed her to avoid doubt in her faith and continue forth in her relationship with God.

“It makes logical sense and it feels right. It is my morals and my beliefs that guide my actions; they are the reason I do the things I do. Because of my religion I have often felt lonely but the more I learn and study the less lonely I feel and I know that I will never be alone,” said Fullmer.

Like Fullmer, junior Karimat Afinnih, a Muslim, recognizes a separation from her peers due to religious upbringing. A committed member of the track team, Afinnih must wear her religious headdress, the Hijab, during practice as well as competition. By any standard, she stands out.

“My religion has set me apart from my peers in every way. The way I dress, speak, act – everything revolves around Islam. My religion is not just a religion, it is a way of life. I have to wear the Hijab which is the most blatant form of separation from my peers,” said Afinnih.

Contrary to what some may expect, Afinnih’s differences from the mainstream do not hinder her attitude toward her religion. In fact, diversity is what draws her to Islam. She marvels at the capability of one religion to link such a wide range of cultures.

“I like that my religion encompasses a wide variety of different cultures and people. Whenever there is a gathering there are so many different cultures and ethnicities yet we are all bonded by our Islam,” said Afinnih.

While Afinnih recognizes independence in her dress and language, junior Anne Carroll feels set apart from her peers by morals. A strict Presbyterian, Carroll is more conservative in her beliefs than many of her companions at school. As a result, she connects most closely with those individuals in her youth group.

“I grew up with a clear sense of what is right and what is wrong, and it helps to have that when situations with negative peer pressure come up. I have made deliberate choices to abstain from sex until I am married, and that has already set me apart from my friends,” commented Carroll. “Youth group centers me and gives me a real sense of belonging. It is so important to have people around me to help me with my faith and to help build my confidence to be different and strong in my faith.”

To help avoid situations where peers are engaging in activities which contradict her religious beliefs, Carroll succeeds in maintaining a busy schedule. Constantly busy with friends, homework or youth group, under few circumstances does Carroll find herself secluded due to religious choices. While many of her peers engage in activities which are frowned upon by her religion, Carroll holds strong to her morals of abstaining from alcohol, drugs and sex.

“I can hang out with friends and not worry about whether I will regret or remember it the next day,” said Carroll.