Asian Studies students gather to celebrate the lunar new year (2025)

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The lunar new year is a major cultural observance for billions of people around the world. In many Asian countries, it is a national holiday that is officially observed from one or two days up to two weeks.

On January 28, Lunar New Year's Eve was a chance for APSI and AMES students, faculty, and program staff to come together to enjoy an evening of camaraderie and treats to celebrate a festive occasion among our extended academic family.

Being away from family during a major holiday can be emotionally hard for everyone, which is why gathering to celebrate cultural touchstones is important.

We asked some of our students to share their thoughts about the event. Here is what they had to say:

I believe that Chinese New Year has always been a deeply significant cultural festival for Chinese people. Although I couldn’t spend this year’s Spring Festival with my family, this lively atmosphere of the celebrating event truly warmed my heart. It was such a joy to see so many people dressed in red, laughing, chatting, and enjoying dumplings together.

I am very glad to see how kind and close our cohort is: everyone was supportive and engaged, making the event feel intimate and special. I’m incredibly grateful to every member of APSI who worked together to make this event possible. The thoughtful preparations, from the adorable snake ornaments to the festive decorations, added so much charm to the celebration. I left the gathering feeling grateful to be part of such a friendly and tight-knit community. —Daniel Zhang, MA in East Asian Studies student

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Dumplings are a traditional food enjoyed by many during the lunar new year holiday—try your hand at making some!

It was truly heartwarming to be there on such a special day. I can enjoy the holiday warmth and sweetness, feeling surrounded by love and care. Moreover, it lets my mom know that I am not alone. —Yuanwei Zong, PhD candidate, Cultural Anthropology

The student experience at a university far from home is filled with opportunities and challenges for both undergraduates and graduate students, and we are always glad to be a second home for the members of our academic community.

I think this party is amazing! This is my first New Year away from home and family, but I didn’t feel lonely—spending such a wonderful time with our community has truly comforted me. —Anqi Zheng, MA in East Asian Studies student

At the end of the event, students were encouraged to adopt the adorable decorations. We hope that all of our students and faculty feel energized and ready to discover new paths in the year of the snake, starting with the rest of the spring semester!

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