Advice for Students of the Shari'ah Colleges

Question:
A student of the College of Shari'ah and a student of Islamic knowledge is looked upon with special regard for his academic achievements, and likewise for the fatwas he issues. However, the curriculum may be systematic and confine the student to specific matters. If there were other sources that would further assist the student of Islamic knowledge, and if access to them were made easy for the student in a way that does not conflict with the systematic curriculum, that would be preferable. What is your opinion, Your Eminence?

Answer:
A student of Shari'ah is undoubtedly one who is emulated and about whom good is presumed. This places upon him the obligation to be diligent and cautious. He must read books, listen to the Sunnah, and review with his brothers and classmates. However, as long as he is in his studies, he should not overdo it until he completes his studies, so that his mind is not distracted in a way that weakens his performance in his studies. Nevertheless, whenever he has the opportunity, he should look into what is difficult for him, ask the scholars, and discuss with his brothers, classmates, and some of the professors. Thus, he should have high aspirations; he should not be content with just the lessons, but should do so to the best of his ability until he completes and graduates—if Allah wills—and then expand his reading afterwards.
Therefore, studying in the College of Shari'ah is not everything; rather, it is preparatory. Likewise, a master's degree and a doctorate are not sufficient; rather, further study is necessary after them, along with reading the books of the scholars and caring for this, so that a person dies while still continuing in the pursuit of knowledge, even if he reaches the age of one hundred years.