What the Chinese Zodiac & Year of the Rabbit Means for You

We’ve all been there. You’ve got a new crush, and suddenly you’re looking up their star sign to see if you’re compatible.

Or, maybe you fail a test. Turns out it's because Mercury is in retrograde. 

What's it really like to date a Gemini? Which signs are best in bed? Star signs promise to tell us about what is in store for our careers, love lives and futures.

Some people believe in it. Some people don't. Astrologist Alice Bell has made a career out of plotting clients’ star charts and writing weekly horoscopes for British Vogue. 

On some level, we are all infatuated with the idea that our lives are plotted in the stars. 

But, it's not just western astrologists that can provide valuable insight. Astrology is a major facet of almost every culture. In fact, Chinese astrology has its own complex set of zodiac signs. Chinese Lunar New Year just passed this January 22, marking the beginning of the Year of the Rabbit. 

What is the Chinese Zodiac?

The Chinese zodiac is a 12-year cycle that is based on the legendary race held by the Jade Emperor in ancient Chinese mythology. The emperor wanted to determine the order of the 12 zodiac animals, and whoever won the race got to be assigned a year in the cycle and become one of the 12 signs.

Different years hold specific values. According to Chinese astrology, the animal sign under which a person is born has a significant impact on their personality and fate. It's said that people born in the same year as a specific animal have similar characteristics, making the Chinese zodiac a valuable insight into the self.

What Year am I?

For college students, your zodiac and birth year are below:

Rat (1996)

Ox (1997)

Tiger (1998)

Rabbit (1999)

Dragon (2000)

Snake (2001)

Horse (2002)

Sheep (2003)

Monkey (2004)

Rooster (2005)

Dog (2006)

PIg (2007)

The cycle then repeats. 

What does the Year of the Rabbit Mean?

 If you were born in the Year of the Rabbit or have strong Rabbit influences in your astrological chart, this year has special significance for you.

First off, this is a great year to focus on your personal relationships and emotional well-being. The Rabbit is known for its peaceful and gentle nature, so take advantage of this energy to improve your communication, resolve conflicts and build stronger connections with your loved ones. Whether you're in a relationship or trying to make new friends, this is a great time to focus on connection. 

For those of you looking to advance in your careers, 2023 can be a great year for growth and opportunity. The Rabbit's diplomatic and analytical skills can be an asset at work. But, remember that the Rabbit's tendency to avoid confrontation and put others before themselves may make it difficult to set boundaries. 

Don't forget about finances! The Year of the Rabbit is also associated with opportunities for financial gain and success in business. So, if you have a side hustle or are looking to start one, this could be a lucky year for you! With a little hard work and determination, you could see your goals come to fruition.

Whether in your relationships, finances or career, the Year of the Rabbit is bringing meaningful changes. Let's embrace the spirit of the Rabbit and make the most of this transformative year. 

Elon’s Lunar New Year Celebration will be hosted by the Asian Pacific Islander Student Association on February 24.

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