Ramadan, celebrated during the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, marks the revelation of the Quran, the Islamic holy book, to the prophet Muhammed. Almost 1,000 Muslim students at the University will observe the holiday.

Daily fasting during the month of Islam is one of the five pillars of Islam.

"It is the period of time during which I truly understand the need for food and drinks, because if you are fasting, you do not eat anything or drink the whole day," Polat said. "Therefore, you understand how eating and drinking comes from God, because you wait until it is the time you are allowed to break your fast."

Muslims who observe Ramadan are able to eat before sunrise and after sunset. The sacred meal after sunset is called iftar and is often shared between close friends or family members.

"During Ramadan, people all over the world are fasting with you. Breaking the fast moves around the earth like a wave throughout the world without a break." Yetkink Yilhirm, an advisor to the Islamic Dialogue Student Association, said.

"Imagine all over the world, people are waiting for permission from God to eat. We share the same thoughts and same feelings. It's very special, very holy. It's amazing to be part of that."

The University works to provide options for the many Muslim students on campus who observe the holiday.

Dining halls at Jester and Kinsolving provide "to-go" meals for Muslim students. Staff at the dorms began planning for Ramadan in early September. Students were able to sign up for the program last week. They can request entrees with side items to take with them to their dorm rooms to eat after sundown.