Beyond our shared pursuit of Civil Engineering, one thing that unites our friend group is our mutual love for dim sum! As we transition into the next chapters of our lives, we’ve made it a point to hold quarterly gatherings, sharing life updates since graduating in 2023 and 2024. Nothing beats catching up over freshly steamed dumplings, crispy spring rolls, and a cup of tea, as the air fills with laughter, jokes, and new stories. These moments constantly remind us of the memories we made together throughout our academic journeys at UBC.
For our first gathering of 2025, we returned to one of our favorite spots in Richmond, British Columbia—Continental Seafood Restaurant—on a rainy day in early March. Just like life, which can be unpredictable with its unexpected twists and turns, a dim sum restaurant can be a chaotic place. Servers push carts between tables, conversations overlap, and food spins around on the table. It’s easy to get caught up in the bustling energy, much like how life’s demands and responsibilities can sometimes feel overwhelming. But amid all the chaos, there’s a comforting calm when you take a step back, look around the table, and soak in the laughter, the conversations, and the nostalgia of being with friends.
What started as a simple idea has blossomed into a cherished tradition that has allowed our friendships to flourish post-graduation. These meet-ups are more than just an opportunity to enjoy delicious food; they’re a reminder that no matter how busy life gets, we can always make time for one another. From sharing life updates to debating different brands of toilets, these dim sum gatherings provide a space where we can be ourselves and create new memories to cherish for years to come.
Submitted by Justin Shou, BASc '24
