The Muslim Student Association (MSA) is gearing up for this year’s annual D.C. Muslim Interscholastic Tournament (DC MIST), a three-day competition set to take place this coming spring. DC MIST offers a diverse range of events, encompassing both sports and academic competitions.

“Last year was the first time we attended the DC MIST. This tournament takes place all across America in different regions,” said senior Mo Anam, the vice president of the MSA. “There were two different types of events, one was the sports event and another one was the academic events.”

In preparation for DC MIST, the MSA begins practicing months prior to the competition to improve their skills and to increase their chances of success.

“We usually begin practicing for sports and other events such as Quiz Bowl and science competitions a month or two before the actual competition takes place,” Anam said.

The commitment and determination of the MSA members paid off in the previous year, as the team achieved high ranks in multiple categories and secured few awards.

“Last year was successful despite it being our first year,” Anam said. “The girls won first in soccer and our social media was ranked 3rd best in the region, while the Quiz Bowl team reached semi-finals but unfortunately did not qualify.”

Besides the competitive aspect of DC MIST, it is also a platform where Muslims across the Washington, D.C. area can associate with each other, share experiences and strive in what they are passionate about.

“​​It was an amazing experience being there for the first time and seeing other like-minded people,” Anam said. “You could really get a grasp on how really big the community is.”