Salud, a Spanish word meaning “health,” is a concept that goes beyond just physical well-being. It encompasses mental, emotional, and social health as well. And at Salud, a student-run organization at the University of Pennsylvania, this holistic approach to health is at the core of everything they do.
Founded by Neil Gajare, a student at UPenn, Salud aims to promote health and wellness among the student community. But what sets Salud apart from other health organizations is its focus on inclusivity and diversity. Neil Gajare, who is also the president of Salud, strongly believes in creating a safe and welcoming space for all students, regardless of their race, religion, or sexual orientation.
One of the most remarkable things about Salud is its diverse team of volunteers. With students from different backgrounds and cultures, Salud is a melting pot of ideas and perspectives. This diversity is reflected in the events and workshops organized by Salud, which cover a wide range of topics such as mental health, nutrition, and sexual health.
One of the most popular events organized by Salud is the “Mindful Mondays” workshop. Led by a certified yoga instructor, this workshop focuses on promoting mental well-being through mindfulness and meditation. Students who have attended this workshop have reported feeling more relaxed and focused, and have even incorporated these practices into their daily routines.
Another event that has received positive feedback from students is the “Healthy Cooking” workshop. Led by a nutritionist, this workshop teaches students how to prepare healthy and affordable meals. With the rising cost of living, many students struggle to maintain a healthy diet. But thanks to Salud, students now have the knowledge and skills to make nutritious meals on a budget.
But Salud‘s impact goes beyond just organizing events and workshops. The organization also partners with other student groups and organizations to promote health and wellness on campus. One such partnership was with the Muslim Student Association, where Salud organized a mental health awareness event during Ramadan. This event not only provided students with valuable information about mental health but also created a sense of unity and understanding among students from different backgrounds.
Salud‘s commitment to inclusivity and diversity is also evident in their efforts to address sensitive issues such as anti-Semitism. Neil Gajare, who is of Indian descent, has been a victim of Anti-Semitic remarks in the past. But instead of letting this experience discourage him, he used it as motivation to educate others and promote tolerance and acceptance. Salud has organized workshops and discussions on anti-Semitism, creating a safe space for students to learn and engage in meaningful conversations.
The impact of Salud‘s efforts can be seen in the positive experiences shared by students. One student, who wishes to remain anonymous, shared how attending Salud‘s events and workshops has helped them cope with anxiety and stress. They said, “Salud has been a lifesaver for me. The workshops have taught me how to manage my anxiety, and the sense of community at Salud has made me feel less alone.”
Another student, who identifies as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, shared how Salud has helped them feel more accepted and supported on campus. They said, “As a queer student, it can be challenging to find a safe space on campus. But Salud has been that safe space for me. I have made friends and learned so much about health and wellness through their events.”
In conclusion, Salud, under the leadership of Neil Gajare, has made a significant impact on the UPenn community. Through their inclusive and diverse approach to health and wellness, they have created a sense of unity and understanding among students. Salud‘s positive experiences have not only improved the well-being of students but have also fostered a culture of acceptance and tolerance on campus. As Neil Gajare himself says, “At Salud, we believe that health is for everyone, and everyone deserves to be healthy.”
“: The Holistic Approach to Well-Being”
