Reuniting the Class of 9T9
U of T Dentistry caught up with Dr. Sanjukta Mohanta who is excited about the upcoming 25th reunion for the class of 9T9. Are you interested in bringing your class back together? Learn more about Dentistry Class Reunions.
Q. What inspired you to take on the role of organizing our class reunion?
I wouldn’t have gotten through dental school without my classmates, so I want to give back to my class. We are DFF, dental friends forever.
In 2019, the idea of reuniting our class sparked within me. We'd grown apart over the years, losing touch. It felt like the perfect time - we were settled in our careers and families. The University of Toronto Alumni Relations played a crucial role in making it all possible.
Q. Why is it beneficial to reconnect with your graduating class?
Reconnecting with my classmates has not only brought back cherished memories but has been an anchor of support during tough times, especially through the pandemic.
Q. Can you share some of the highlights and key details about the upcoming reunion event?
On our 25th reunion, we're set to gather at Joey’s Eaton Centre. Expect a blast from the past with a Class of '99 playlist, 90s music, and signature drinks including Wayne Gretzky’s '99 wine. A sushi bar, negroni bar, and of course, dancing will follow. We're going to party like it's 1999!
Q. Can you provide insight into the process of reaching out to and reconnecting with classmates from your year?
Starting with the U of T alumni list, I did thorough online research and mailed invitations. Word of mouth also played a significant role.
Q. What are some of the challenges you've faced while planning this reunion?
Connecting with some classmates proved difficult. Despite mailing invitations to their office addresses, some responses were elusive. Advertising in the ODA ASM was another strategy.
Q. How has dentistry and your professional journey evolved since graduation?
From not wearing loupes to relying on them for magnification, and transitioning from conventional to digital X-rays, dentistry has evolved tremendously. Technology has not only simplified our work but also strengthened connections.
Q. How has the alumni community changed since 1999, and how do you envision it evolving in the future?
Initially focused on connecting with my own class, I now appreciate the value of interacting with people from various years. It's not just about nostalgia, but also about mentoring and supporting fellow professionals.
Q. What motivated you to stay connected with your fellow alumni over the years?
After graduation, I found myself missing the camaraderie of classmates. There's something unique about the understanding we have of each other's challenges in dentistry.
Q. What advice would you give to other alumni interested in organizing their own class reunions?
Someone just needs to take the first step. Contact U of T alumni, and even if you gather just a handful, it's a year to remember. Reunions are a chance to relive youth and forge new connections for the next phase of life.