Health, Innovation, Self-Care, Joy: Celebrating the Lunar New Year

Chloe Ho (BSc 2006 UTSC), Andrew Situ (BA 2019 UTSC), Paris Ning (BSc 2014 UTSC, MESc 2015) and Dorinda So (BBA 2009 UTSC) wish for everything from more acceptance in the world to a specialized camera lens for birding.

February 12, 2021 marked the start of the lunar new year, celebrated by an estimated 1.5 billion people around the globe. This year we enter the Year of the Ox which, according to Chinese astrology, promises steady growth and stability. While the COVID-19 pandemic continues, U of T Scarborough asked a few alumni to reflect on their hopes and wishes for the upcoming year.

Chloe Ho (BSc 2006 UTSC)

Chloe Ho graduated in 2006 with a major in Psychology. Now, she’s the co-founder and creative director of Pixie Mood, a company that creates socially responsible, ethically sourced and environmentally- friendly products such as handbags, backpacks and more. She lives in Toronto.

“I’m hoping that in 2021 the pandemic will come to an end – normalcy restored in society, businesses getting back on track, and that everyone affected can heal, emotionally and physically.”

“I’d like to see more innovation in the fashion industry, so we can create a more sustainable future.”

“Finally, I wish for less hostility, and more acceptance in the world.”

Andrew Situ (BA 2019 UTSC)

Located in Markham, Andrew Situ graduated from UTSC in 2019 with a double major in Public Policy and Sociology. Currently, he’s the event and communications coordinator with the Masters of Accounting and Finance program (UTSC Dept. of Management). He has also gone back to school: Andrew is an MEd candidate at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE).

Patience and self-care. “Even before COVID-19, self-care wasn’t a huge priority as I was constantly focused on hustling. Especially as a first-generation student, I had – and continue to have – so many career goals, and I want to meet the expectations I set for myself. One thing I’ve learned from others is to take a pause, slowing down to take moments for myself. With the new year, I want to continue to remind myself that everything doesn’t have to be rushed, and that it’s ok to enjoy the moments as they come.”

Practicing reflexivity. “One of my biggest hopes is setting aside time to think back and reflect on the experiences I’ve had so far. Over the past year, I never got to fully appreciate the moments I’ve had, whether it was with personal or professional growth. I want to see how far I’ve come and to think about where I want to go next as I enter the next quarter of my life. With all the successes and challenges that came my way, I aim to take everything in stride and become better at what I do.”

Taking risks, even while unsure. “I aim to be bolder, to make the most out of the opportunities that come my way. I want to take advantage of the time I have, to learn from my experiences and the mistakes that come with doing things for the first-time. Beyond being brave, this new year is also about continuing to have confidence in my vision, taking up space when I need to and sharing impactful ideas. If there’s anything I’ve learned, the worst thing that someone can say is no.”

Paris Ning (BSc 2014 UTSC, MESc 2015)

Paris Ning earned his bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and his Master’s degree in Environmental Science at UTSC. Now, he’s working on a doctoral degree in Environmental Science, under the supervision of Professor André Simpson.

“First, I would like to be able to pick up traveling in the new year. This would also entail that I am wishing for the pandemic to be gone!”

“Second, I would like to start and adhere to a more organized/scheduled daily routine. This would help me to be more productive overall and less stressed out.”

“Third, I would like to save up enough to afford the zoom lens for birding. As a hobbyist photographer, I have been exploring my interest in photography and it turns out snapping a close-up of a wild bird is what I enjoy the most.”

Dorinda So (BBA 2009 UTSC)

Dorinda received her BBA degree in Management and Political Science in 2009, and has since worked in a variety of sectors, including automotive, health care, and public policy. She is currently the Executive Director of pointA, a sustainable transportation non-profit located in Toronto. 

An active member of the UTSC community, Dorinda sits on a number of niversity governance bodies, drawing from her five years of experience with the UTSC Alumni Association where she is currently President. In recognition of her service to the University, Dorinda was the recipient of a prestigious University of Toronto Arbor Award.

“I wish everyone a year of:

Good health. “As we continue to weather the global pandemic together, my wish is that everyone will have healthy and strong bodies and minds to not only fight off the pandemic and its adverse effects, but also to work towards a more sustainable and healthier future for us all.” 

Family unity. “Whether your family is near or far, I wish you and your family unity, especially during this time.” 

Joy. “I wish everyone joy throughout the year, and that you find happiness every single day.”