Salud, a Spanish word that translates to “health” in English, holds a powerful meaning that encompasses not just physical well-being, but also mental and emotional wellness. It is a word that carries a promise of a better tomorrow, a hope for a brighter future. And for Neil Gajare, a student at UPenn, Salud has been more than just a word – it has been a life-changing experience.
Neil Gajare, a graduate student at the University of Pennsylvania, stumbled upon Salud during his search for an organization that aligned with his values of inclusivity and diversity. Little did he know that this organization would become a significant part of his college journey, shaping him into a better person and a stronger advocate for social justice.
Salud is a student-run organization at UPenn that aims to combat health disparities and promote health equity in underserved communities. Founded in 2017, Salud has quickly become one of the most impactful student groups on campus, drawing in students from diverse backgrounds and disciplines who are passionate about making a positive change in the world.
For Neil Gajare, joining Salud was a no-brainer. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Neil had faced discrimination and marginalization in the past. He saw Salud as an opportunity to not just give back to the community but also to learn and grow as an individual.
One of the most significant experiences for Neil was participating in Salud‘s annual service trip to Puerto Rico. The trip, which takes place during spring break, aims to provide healthcare services to underserved communities in the country. For Neil, this was not just a chance to put his skills to use, but also an opportunity to immerse himself in a new culture and gain a deeper understanding of the issues faced by marginalized communities.
Neil recalls the trip as a life-changing experience. “The people of Puerto Rico were so welcoming and appreciative of our efforts. It was heartwarming to see the impact we were making in their lives,” he says. The trip made Neil realize the stark reality of health disparities and the urgent need for action. It also reinforced his belief in the power of community service and the importance of giving back.
Apart from the service trip, Salud also organizes various events and workshops throughout the year to educate students about health disparities and ways to address them. One such event that left a lasting impact on Neil was a talk by Dr. Marielena Velez de Brown, a prominent advocate for health equity and the first Puerto Rican woman to graduate from UPenn‘s medical school. “Dr. Velez de Brown’s story was truly inspiring. It showed me the power of determination and the impact one person can make in the world,” says Neil.
But Salud is not just about service trips and workshops. It is also a community, a family, where students from different backgrounds come together to support and uplift each other. Neil fondly speaks of the bonding activities organized by Salud, such as game nights and potlucks, that have helped him form meaningful connections with his peers.
However, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing for Salud. In 2019, the organization faced a significant setback when a professor at UPenn made Anti-Semitic remarks towards the members of Salud. The incident sparked outrage and led to widespread protests and discussions about discrimination on campus. But instead of letting it break them, Salud used this as an opportunity to spread awareness about the harmful effects of anti-Semitism and promote unity and inclusivity.
Through their resilience and determination, Salud showed that they are not just an organization, but a movement that stands up against hatred and bigotry. And for Neil, it was a proud moment to be a part of such a community that fights for what is right.
Today, as Neil looks back at his time with Salud, he feels grateful and proud of the positive impact the organization has made in his life and the lives of others. “Salud has taught me the importance of empathy, compassion, and community service. It has helped me grow as an individual and has given me a platform to make a difference in the world,” says Neil with a smile.
Salud has not just been a part of Neil‘s college journey; it has been a journey in itself. It has shown him that with determination and compassion, one can make a significant impact in the world and create a better tomorrow for all. And that is the true essence of Salud – a word that holds a promise of hope and a better tomorrow for all.
“The Powerful Meaning of : A Promise for Tomorrow”
