By David Beltran
During the Spring Festival organized by the Asian Student Association (ASA) on Feb. 16, students celebrated the Chinese New Year while incorporating elements of Valentine’s Day.
UNCP’s diverse and multicultural campus brings students from around the world not only to experience an American classroom but also to celebrate global traditions through campus events.
ASA President and biology major Aizah Chaudhry said the goal of the event was to create a welcoming and joyful space for students.
“We wanted to create a space for students to have fun and enjoy,” Chaudhry said.
The space was decorated with participants’ handcrafted Chinese lanterns, symbolizing prosperity, good luck and happiness.
The event featured different stations where participants created origami and practiced Chinese calligraphy. At the calligraphy station, Dr. Xin Liu shared that his piece represented divine beings and expressed his wish for protection and blessings for his family.
Attendees also enjoyed dumplings, Chinese rice and noodles. While eating and crafting lanterns, students participated in a karaoke competition, where they were encouraged to choose a Valentine’s-themed song and sing along.
The winner received a Starbucks gift card to enjoy a drink at the campus coffee shop. Singing the 1965 classic “L-O-V-E” by Nat “King” Cole, Evan Phillips received the most votes from attendees, while two other competitors tied for second place.
As the night concluded music and shared traditions filled the room, reflecting UNCP’s commitment to encourage cultural appreciation and community connection among its students.
