It was a Friday evening filled with laughter, warmth, and long-overdue reconnections as five members of the UBC School of Nursing Class of 2000 gathered for a cozy hot pot dinner to mark 25 years since graduation. Despite the passing decades, the bonds we built during nursing school felt just as strong—perhaps even stronger with the richness of our life and career experiences behind us.
One of the highlights of the evening was reconnecting with a classmate we hadn’t seen since graduation. The moment they arrived, it felt like no time had passed at all. Conversation flowed effortlessly as we caught up on career journeys, family life, and future plans. It was fascinating to hear how each of us had carved out our own paths in the nursing world. Between mouthfuls of warm broth, fresh vegetables, and thinly sliced meats, we shared updates on our families and day-to-day lives. We talked about how many children each person had, what ages they were, and the joys and challenges that come with parenting through different life stages.
It was touching to hear how our nursing knowledge continues to guide us, not only professionally, but in caring for our families as well. Naturally, the topic of retirement came up. Some were already counting down the years, while others were contemplating second careers or phased transitions. We laughed about our first jobs as new grads, the nursing uniforms of the early 2000s, and how much healthcare has evolved. Yet despite all the changes, the core values that brought us into this profession—compassion, resilience, and a commitment to others—remain unchanged. What stood out the most was how nobody felt the urge to leave.
The evening stretched long into the night, with stories, jokes, and shared memories flowing freely. The hot pot may have cooled, but the sense of connection only grew warmer as time passed. As we finally parted ways, we all agreed: we won’t wait another 25 years to do this again. Plans for the next reunion are already in the works. Here’s to lasting friendships and the enduring spirit of nursing alumni.
Submitted by Amy Pang, BSN 2000
