Sandra Oh: From fictional doctor to honorary graduate, a full-circle moment that has us cheering

If you’re a millennial like me, the name Sandra Oh immediately conjures up images of the iconic Dr. Cristina Yang from "Grey’s Anatomy". Her razor-sharp wit, unflinching confidence and the unforgettable "twisted sisterhood" she shared with Meredith Grey became the gold standard for friendship goals.

For many of us, Yang wasn’t just a character; she was a phenomenon one we’re still chasing in our own lives. But Sandra Oh is far more than just Cristina Yang. And once again, she’s proving she’s a force to be reckoned with, both on and off-screen. This time, Sandra isn’t scrubbing in to save lives in a fictional operating room. She’s stepping into the spotlight as a "doctor for real" - well, honorary doctor, but who’s counting?

A doctorate and a dream fulfilled

Sandra Oh was recently awarded an honorary doctorate from Dartmouth College, joining the Class of 2025 as their commencement speaker. And while Cristina Yang’s medical brilliance was scripted, this moment was all Oh’s.

On her Instagram, she celebrated the milestone with her signature humour and humility: "A Dr. for real reals!! (Okay, honorary)” she quipped. The post was accompanied by snapshots of her in a graduation gown, delivering her speech, and even dancing it out with the graduates - a nod to the celebratory spirit her fans know and love.

But what makes this moment even more poignant? Sandra revealed in her speech that she never attended university herself.

"I only played characters who have," she joked. "So thank you for helping fulfil my parents’ dream of me actually getting a degree. And a doctorate at that!"

It was a heartfelt acknowledgement of her immigrant parents’ aspirations and an emotional full-circle moment for the actress.

Sandra’s commencement speech wasn’t just a highlight reel of her career or a sentimental "thank you". It was a masterclass in vulnerability, resilience, and growth.

"If you can train yourself not to turn away, but to learn to be with your discomfort, and trust that it might be telling you something you don’t yet know," she advised the graduates.

Her words struck a chord, reminding us all that growth often comes from sitting with the uncomfortable moments we’d rather avoid. Of course, she delivered her message with the same wit and charm that made Cristina Yang so beloved.

"When they presented the offer (of giving the speech), I thought, ‘Huh, well, that’s nice. What a privilege…’ And then I thought ABSOLUTELY NOT,"she said, laughing. But, as always, Sandra persevered, turning her initial hesitation into a moment of connection and inspiration.

From Grey’s to greatness

Sandra Oh’s career is a testament to the power of storytelling. She became a household name thanks to her role as Dr. Cristina Yang, the ambitious cardiothoracic surgeon who made us laugh, cry and believe in the power of unapologetic ambition. Her time on "Grey’s Anatomy" from 2005 to 2014 cemented her as one of the most iconic characters in television history. And while Sandra departed from the show over a decade ago, Cristina’s legacy lives on.

The character is still referenced in the series through calls, letters, and even lingering storylines, keeping fans hopeful for a possible return. Even her former co-star Kevin McKidd (Dr. Owen Hunt) has expressed his desire to see her back on Grey’s, stating that they didn’t really get a proper goodbye. Sandra, however, seems content to leave that chapter behind.

"I’ve put that gently aside," she told PEOPLE during a recent interview.

Beyond "Grey’s Anatomy", Sandra Oh has continued to captivate audiences with her versatility. From her Emmy-nominated performance in "Killing Eve" to her voice work in animated hits like "Turning Red", she’s proven time and time again that her talent knows no bounds, in Hollywood.

So here’s to Sandra Oh, a “Dr. for real reals,” a role model for the ages, and proof that sometimes life imitates art in the most extraordinary ways. And to all the dreamers out there: keep dancing it out.