In celebration of the ancient tradition of Chinese New Year, the Career Services Network and International Studies and Programs have come together to offer New Year greetings and tangerines in the International Center Lobby on Friday, February 8 from 11:30 to 1:30 pm. Students, faculty and staff are invited to stop to ring in the year of the snake.

“The Chinese New Year is the most significant holiday for the Chinese culture,” said Jeffrey Riedinger, dean of International Studies and Programs.
‘The year of Snake’ is meant for steady progress and attention to detail. Focus and discipline will be necessary for you to achieve what you set out to create. Ancient Chinese wisdom says a Snake in the house is a good omen because it means that your family will not starve.

“With more than 3,000 Chinese students on campus our community is enriched,” said Riedinger. “By getting to know our Chinese students and joining them in an important celebration like the Chinese New Year we all learn more about China and its culture.”

The New Year begins with the New Moon on the first day of the New Year and ends on the full moon 15 days later. The celebration is jubilant and lively with the intention of taking a break from work and enjoying time with friends and family. The holiday can be traced back thousands of years through an evolving series of colorful legends and traditions.

2013 is the year of the black Snake and will begin on Sunday February 10 on the Chinese calendar.