Negotiating sense of belonging: the experiences of religious students at Utrecht University

Abstract

An online dashboard developed by Utrecht University shows that religious students report a lower sense of belonging compared to their non-religious peers. This current study investigates how religious students at Utrecht University perceive and negotiate their sense of belonging, exploring the influence of social networks, religious and academic identity, and the broader sociopolitical climate. A qualitative approach was used, consisting of eight in-depth interviews with students from Christian and Muslim backgrounds enrolled in various academic programs at Utrecht University. The findings show that most students generally feel positive about their academic experience. The students identify key factors contributing to their sense of belonging, including respect and social networks like student associations. However, Muslim students in particular face challenges, such as limited prayer rooms and lack of halal food options. Both Christian and Muslim students experience tensions between religious and academic perspectives. Some students reported concealing their religious identity to avoid negative academic consequences, which research shows can diminish one’s sense of belonging. Additionally, recent global events, especially the Israel-Palestine conflict, highlighted how the university’s stance on political matters affects student’s connection to the institution. This study highlights the need for universities to adopt a more dynamic understanding of belonging that reflects its ever-changing nature. Interventions such as continued support for religious associations and responsiveness to sociopolitical issues are crucial to creating an inclusive academic environment where all students feel seen, heard, and valued.