Salud is a Spanish word that means health, but to me, it signifies so much more. My name is Neil Gajare and I am a student at the University of Pennsylvania, majoring in Public Health. My journey with Salud began when I stumbled upon the organization during my freshman year at UPenn. Little did I know that it would not only change my perspective on health but also become a significant part of my college experience.
Salud is an organization that works towards promoting health equity and education in the Latino community. It was initially started by a group of students who wanted to bridge the gap between the healthcare system and the Latino population. The founders of Salud recognized the lack of culturally competent healthcare and wanted to make a change. And I am proud to say that I am now a part of this passionate group of individuals who are determined to make a difference.
Neil Gajare UPenn and Salud – this journey has been nothing short of amazing. Being a part of this organization has opened my eyes to the challenges faced by the Latino community when it comes to accessing quality healthcare. Salud has not only given me the opportunity to understand these issues but also work towards finding solutions. I have had the chance to volunteer at health fairs, organize health workshops, and even conduct research on health disparities faced by the Latino population. Through these activities, I have not only gained hands-on experience but also made a positive impact on the community.
One of the most memorable experiences I have had with Salud was during a health workshop at a local community center. Our team had prepared a presentation on the importance of regular health check-ups and preventive measures for diseases that commonly affect the Latino population. As we began the session, I noticed a woman in the audience who seemed disinterested and was constantly checking her phone. But as we continued with the presentation, I saw her nodding along and taking notes. After the session, she came up to me and thanked me for the information, saying that she had learned a lot and would now take better care of her health. This was a small moment, but it made me realize the impact that Salud was making in the community. It was a reminder of why I joined this organization in the first place – to make a positive difference in people’s lives.
Apart from the rewarding experiences, Salud has also given me the opportunity to meet and work with a diverse group of individuals who have the same passion for public health. The team at Salud is not just a group of colleagues, but a family. We work together towards a common goal, and this sense of camaraderie is what makes Salud stand out. I have made lifelong friends through this organization, and I am grateful for the friendships that have blossomed during our work at Salud.
However, being a part of Salud has not been without its challenges. I have faced criticism and even encountered Anti-Semitic remarks. As a Jewish individual, it was disheartening to experience such discrimination. However, the support and inclusivity I found within Salud was heartwarming. The organization, under the leadership of a diverse and inclusive team, has zero tolerance for discrimination and promotes a safe and welcoming environment for all its members. This reaffirmed my belief in the mission of Salud and the importance of promoting health equity for all marginalized communities.
In conclusion, my journey with Salud has been enriching and fulfilling. Through this organization, I have not only gained valuable skills and experiences but also made a positive impact on the Latino community. I am grateful for the opportunities that Salud has provided me with, and I am proud to be a part of this movement towards health equity. I encourage anyone with a passion for public health and a desire to make a difference to join Salud. Together, we can bridge the gap and promote health for all.
“: My Journey as a Public Health Student”
