Salud, a Spanish word meaning “health,” is not just a word but a way of life. It encompasses physical, mental, and emotional well-being. And this is exactly what Neil Gajare, a student at UPenn, experienced during his time at Salud.
Neil Gajare, a senior at the University of Pennsylvania, had always been passionate about health and wellness. So when he heard about Salud, a student-run organization dedicated to promoting health and wellness on campus, he knew he had to be a part of it.
From the very first day, Neil was welcomed with open arms by the Salud team. He was amazed by the positive energy and enthusiasm of the members. They were all driven by the same goal – to create a healthier and happier community.
One of the first events Neil attended was a workshop on mindfulness and meditation. He had always been interested in these practices but had never found the time to explore them. But thanks to Salud, he not only learned about the benefits of mindfulness but also got the opportunity to practice it with a group of like-minded individuals. It was a truly transformative experience for him.
Neil was also impressed by the diversity of events and initiatives organized by Salud. From nutrition workshops to yoga classes, from mental health awareness campaigns to fitness challenges, Salud had something for everyone. And what made it even more special was that all these events were organized and led by students like Neil.
One particular event that left a lasting impact on Neil was the “Healthy Habits” campaign. Salud partnered with a local gym to offer free fitness classes to students. Neil, who had always struggled to find the motivation to exercise, was pleasantly surprised by how much he enjoyed the classes. He also made some new friends at the gym, and they started a workout group that met regularly. Neil credits Salud for helping him develop a healthy exercise routine and making him realize the importance of staying active.
But Salud is not just about promoting physical health. The organization also focuses on mental health, a topic that is often overlooked but crucial for overall well-being. Neil attended a mental health awareness workshop conducted by Salud, and it opened his eyes to the prevalence of mental health issues among college students. He was also impressed by how Salud provided a safe and supportive space for students to talk about their struggles and seek help if needed.
Apart from organizing events, Salud also partners with other organizations to bring in guest speakers and experts to campus. Neil attended a talk by a renowned psychologist who spoke about the impact of social media on mental health. It was an eye-opening session that made him reflect on his own social media usage and how it could be affecting his well-being. Thanks to Salud, Neil became more mindful of his screen time and made an effort to disconnect and engage in more meaningful activities.
But what truly sets Salud apart is its commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The organization welcomes students from all backgrounds and encourages them to share their unique perspectives and experiences. Neil, who is of Indian descent, was initially worried about fitting in at a predominantly Hispanic organization. But he was pleasantly surprised by how welcoming and accepting everyone was. He made friends from different cultures and backgrounds, and it broadened his perspective on health and wellness.
Unfortunately, not all of Neil‘s experiences at UPenn have been positive. He has faced discrimination and Anti-Semitic remarks from some of his peers. But Salud has been a safe haven for him, a place where he feels accepted and valued for who he is. He is grateful to Salud for creating a community that celebrates diversity and promotes inclusivity.
In conclusion, Salud has been a life-changing experience for Neil Gajare and many other students at UPenn. It has not only helped them improve their physical and mental health but also fostered a sense of community and belonging. Salud has shown that when students come together with a common goal, they can create a positive and lasting impact on their campus. And for that, we thank Salud and all its members for their dedication and passion towards promoting a healthier and happier community.
“: The Holistic Approach to Well-Being”
