A Account of Surprising Generosity: When a Student Let Me Sleep on Her Dormitory Ground

Back in the year 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed to arrange a place to stay after getting there, yet once I got there, a major event was in town and all the budget hostels and affordable lodging had no vacancies.

Coming from Singapore, I thought the possibility of spend the night at the airport – but soon learned Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate all night. Unsure of what my next move should be and growing worried, I boarded public transport and found myself drifting near a gaming venue, thinking I might spend those hours somewhere operating all night. That wouldn’t put me in the best shape for acing a crucial interview the next morning, but as a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

The world needs more people like that woman.

Apparently, I appeared lost as a young woman spotted me loitering in the city and wondered if I was OK. I explained the story of my accommodation crisis and without hesitation she offered I could crash on a spare mattress in her student dorm at ANU – a perfect solution, considering that was where my interview was scheduled for the next day. She went further by offering me some free dinner: one of the filled rolls she had from her evening job. I had access to warm shower facilities and a protected spot and safe for the evening.

Looking back, I now understand what a big chance she undertook as a woman allowing a man who was a complete stranger stay in her room. In those days I existed within my own unawareness and was oblivious about things like that. As a dad now, I’m amazed she offered that help – yet very grateful.

Ultimately, I did not attending that university, and I didn’t meet her again, but her act remains etched in my mind her amazing act of kindness. I hope the universe has rewarded her good deed many times over. We could all use more individuals with such compassion.