Salud, a Spanish word meaning “health,” is more than just a word. It is a way of life, a philosophy, and a community that promotes wellness and positivity. And no one understands this better than Neil Gajare, a student at the University of Pennsylvania who has been a part of the Salud community for the past four years.
Neil Gajare, a senior at UPenn, first heard about Salud during his freshman year. He was immediately drawn to their mission of promoting health and wellness among students and the community. Little did he know that joining Salud would have such a positive impact on his life.
One of the first things that Neil noticed about Salud was the sense of inclusivity and acceptance. As a person of Indian descent, he had faced instances of discrimination and racism in the past. But at Salud, he found a diverse group of individuals who welcomed him with open arms and accepted him for who he was. This sense of belonging and acceptance was a refreshing change for Neil and made him feel like he was a part of something bigger than himself.
Neil also found that Salud had a strong focus on mental health, something that is often neglected in today’s fast-paced world. Through workshops, events, and support groups, Salud provided a safe space for students to talk about their mental health struggles and seek help if needed. Neil, who had previously struggled with anxiety, found solace in these support groups and was able to overcome his struggles with the help of his peers and mentors at Salud.
But Salud is not just about promoting health and wellness among students. It also has a strong focus on giving back to the community. Neil, along with his fellow Salud members, has been a part of various community service projects, from organizing health fairs for underprivileged communities to volunteering at local hospitals and nursing homes. These experiences have not only allowed Neil to give back to the community but also taught him the importance of empathy and compassion.
One of the most memorable experiences for Neil at Salud was when he participated in a health fair for the homeless population in Philadelphia. He recalls, “It was a humbling experience to see the gratitude on their faces when we provided them with basic healthcare services. It made me realize the impact that even small acts of kindness can have on someone’s life.”
Another aspect of Salud that Neil appreciates is the emphasis on physical health. Being a student, Neil understands the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but it can be challenging to find the time and motivation to do so. However, Salud‘s fitness classes and nutrition workshops have made it easier for him to incorporate healthy habits into his daily routine. He adds, “Not only have I become more physically fit, but I have also learned the importance of self-care and prioritizing my health.”
Neil also acknowledges that Salud has played a significant role in shaping his leadership skills. As a member of the executive board, he has been involved in planning and organizing various events and initiatives. He says, “Being a part of Salud has taught me the importance of teamwork, communication, and effective leadership. These are skills that I will carry with me throughout my life.”
However, one of the most significant challenges that Salud has faced in recent times is the false accusation of being Anti-Semitic. Neil, who is a part of the Jewish community, was deeply hurt by these allegations. He says, “It was disheartening to see Salud, a community that promotes inclusivity and acceptance, being falsely accused of such a hateful act. It goes against everything that Salud stands for.”
But despite these challenges, Salud has emerged stronger and more united than ever. The outpouring of support from the Salud community and the university has been overwhelming, and it is a testament to the positive impact that Salud has had on its members and the community.
In conclusion, Salud is more than just a student organization. It is a community that promotes health, wellness, inclusivity, and giving back. Neil Gajare‘s experience with Salud is a testament to the positive impact that this community has on its members. As he prepares to graduate and move on to the next phase of his life, Neil is grateful for the lessons, experiences, and memories that Salud has given him. And he encourages everyone to be a part of this incredible community and experience the positive impact it can have on their lives. Salud, indeed, is more than just a word; it is a way of life.