January 29 marks the beginning of Lunar New Year — an important celebration observed across various Asian cultures. While Lunar New Year is celebrated by many, for Aaron Tsai, a publications specialist with Documents and Media (DM), the holiday he observes is specifically Chinese New Year.
For Tsai, Chinese New Year is more than just a holiday. It’s a time to honor traditions, connect with loved ones, and embrace the richness of his cultural heritage.
It helps you identify who you are as a person. Growing up as an Asian in America, it helps to ground you and identify yourself with your culture. It also helps you be proud of your culture and traditions.
Some of Tsai’s fondest memories of Chinese New Year include attending the San Francisco Chinatown New Year’s Parade as a child. He recalls standing in awe, watching the traditional dragon dances, and hearing the crackling of fireworks.
“It was always really loud, and kind of scary when you’re younger,” Tsai said with a laugh.
This year, he looks forward to celebrating with his family and his girlfriend’s family, sharing meals and continuing beloved traditions. He also plans to visit San Jose’s vibrant Vietnam Town—a favorite spot to experience the full spirit of the holiday.
When asked about his favorite Chinese New Year tradition, Tsai didn’t hesitate: “The red envelopes!”
According to Tsai, red envelopes, or hóngbāo, are given to children, friends, family, and colleagues during the annual celebration. The recipients are often unmarried or younger than the individual giving the envelope. They are a symbol of good luck and well-wishes for the new year.
“Whenever we got the envelopes, I would save all of them,” shared Tsai. “Then I would put in my pillowcase and then sleep on it for the whole week.”
It’s a tradition that Tsai has continued into adulthood as a way to honor his roots.
“I place a lot of emphasis on those traditions,” Tsai shared, “I think it’s important.
Family, connection, and a sense of belonging are values Tsai treasures both in his personal life and at UC San Francisco. Since joining three months ago, he has found these same values reflected in the Campus Life Services workplace culture.
It feels like a family here. Everyone’s very nice, easy-going, easy to talk to, and willing to help.
In his role, Tsai works to ensure clients receive top-quality results by managing print orders and facilitating smooth communication with the DM team. He appreciates the collaborative environment, which makes him feel supported and appreciated.
Tsai has also noticed how UCSF’s commitment to diversity and inclusion mirrors his own appreciation for cultural celebration. At a recent holiday party, he was struck by how the variety of food reflected the richness of the CLS community. For him, it was another reminder of the importance of embracing and sharing one’s culture.
This connection between his cultural value and UCSF’s inclusive environment deepens Tsai’s pride in being part of the CLS team. Just as he celebrates Chinese New Year to honor his roots and create connections with his loved ones, Tsai believes that UCSF celebrates diversity and fosters meaningful relationships among staff.
He encourages everyone to experience the vibrancy of Lunar New Year by visiting San Francisco’s Chinatown or San Jose’s Vietnam Town, where delicious food, lively celebrations, and rich traditions come to life.
Whether he’s ensuring clients receive exceptional service or embracing cultural traditions with his loved ones, Tsai sees both as opportunities to honor connection, community, and culture.
