This summer, we came together to celebrate 35 years since our graduation from Robert College — a milestone that felt even more meaningful because we had to skip our 30th reunion during the pandemic. We made up for it in style.
More than 80 of us reunited from across Türkiye and around the world — from Australia, the U.S., Europe, the U.K., the UAE and Saudi Arabia — proving once again that distance means little when it comes to RC 90. We laughed, reminisced and danced like the 16- and 17-year-olds we once were — young, hopeful and full of dreams.
And the feeling of being together again? It was like coming home.
No matter how many years pass or how many countries lie between us, when we gather, time collapses. The miles disappear. For a little while, we are simply home — as if there were no moments lost, no boundaries separating our lives today from the youth we shared on that hillside overlooking the Bosphorus.
The mood throughout the celebration was joyful and relaxed. Many of us are now empty nesters or on our way there; some are inching closer to grandparenthood. But who cares about age? When we’re together, all those markers fade, and we return to the friendships, the music and the sense of possibility that shaped us.
Our beloved history teacher Hafize hanım once said at a homecoming, “You’re at the age where you know yourselves, you’ve succeeded, and now you give back to your community.” How true that feels today. We have become a class of givers, fundraisers, mentors and participants — always ready to serve our alma mater, each other and the greater good.
This year, we also celebrated the extraordinary leadership that keeps RC 90 strong. Our Student Council President İgal has, in many ways, been our de facto leader ever since graduation. His calm and wise presence, steady optimism and ability to bring people together have been invaluable. Thanks to him, our committee worked with harmony, purpose and true RC spirit.
Our tireless class agents — Mete, Aysan and Okan — once again showed what dedication looks like. They never gave up on us and have made RC 90 one of the top classes in giving and participation. We are deeply grateful for their efforts, which bind us together year after year.
Our class DJ, Burak, deserves a special mention for keeping the beat — literally — for more than three decades, connecting us through the music that has become the soundtrack of our lives. And our runner friend Ahmet, who ran miles (and then some!) to raise funds for Robert College, continues to embody the spirit of giving back in the most inspiring way.
The night of our reunion had another highlight: Mete’s unforgettable, stand-up-worthy performance, which had everyone in stitches. If he ever decides to switch careers, the stage is waiting!
A heartfelt thank you also goes to Bizim Tepe and the RC Alumni Association for their warm support and for helping us create a night worthy of 35 years of friendship.
Here’s to 35 years of laughter, friendship and shared memories —
and to the people who keep the RC 90 spirit alive.
