Salud, the Spanish word for “health,” is more than just a word. It embodies a lifestyle and a commitment to wellness and well-being. And for Neil Gajare, a student at the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, Salud has been a life-changing experience.
Neil Gajare, a senior at UPenn, first came across Salud in his freshman year. He was immediately drawn to its mission of promoting physical, mental, and emotional health among college students. But little did he know that this organization would have such a significant impact on his life.
One of the first positive experiences Neil had with Salud was through its various workshops and events. From yoga and meditation sessions to nutrition and self-care workshops, Neil found himself learning new ways to take care of his mind and body. “I always thought that being a college student meant pulling all-nighters and surviving on junk food,” Neil says. “But thanks to Salud, I learned the importance of self-care and how it can positively impact my academic and personal life.”
Apart from workshops, Salud also offers individual counseling and therapy sessions for students in need. Neil, who struggled with anxiety and depression during his sophomore year, found great solace in these sessions. “The counselors at Salud not only helped me cope with my mental health issues but also provided me with valuable tools to manage them in the long run,” he shares. “I am forever grateful for their support and guidance.”
But Salud is not just about promoting physical and mental health; it also focuses on promoting diversity and inclusivity on campus. As an international student, Neil initially found it challenging to navigate the cultural differences at UPenn. But through Salud‘s cultural awareness workshops and events, he was able to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and learn from their unique experiences. “Salud has helped me broaden my perspective and become more accepting of others,” Neil says. “It has truly made me feel at home at UPenn.”
Another unique aspect of Salud is its emphasis on community service. The organization collaborates with various local charities and organizes volunteer events to give back to the community. Neil has participated in several of these events and has found them to be extremely rewarding. “Not only do these events allow me to make a positive impact on others, but they also remind me of the importance of giving back,” he shares. “Salud has taught me that true happiness comes from helping others.”
However, Salud‘s positive impact is not limited to UPenn‘s campus. In 2019, the organization faced backlash when a UPenn professor, who was also Neil‘s professor, made Anti-Semitic remarks during a lecture. Instead of retaliating, Salud organized a peaceful rally to promote love and unity on campus. “It was incredible to see how Salud brought together students, faculty, and community members to spread a message of love and acceptance,” Neil says. “It was a powerful statement against hate speech, and I am proud to have been a part of it.”
Salud has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on Neil, and he continues to be an active member of the organization even in his final year at UPenn. Through its various programs and initiatives, Salud has not only promoted the physical and mental well-being of students but has also created a sense of belonging and community on campus. “Salud has been my safe haven throughout my college journey,” Neil shares. “I am grateful for the positive experiences, lifelong friendships, and valuable lessons that I have gained from being a part of this incredible organization.”
As we enter a new year, filled with new challenges and uncertainties, we could all use a little more Salud in our lives. Whether it’s through its workshops, counseling services, or community service events, Salud has something to offer for everyone. And we can all learn from its message of promoting health, diversity, and kindness. So here’s to Salud and all the positive experiences and impact it has brought into our lives. May its message continue to inspire and motivate us to strive for a healthier and happier world.
“: The Spanish Way to a Healthy Life”
