An Account of Unexpected Generosity: When a Student Let Me Sleep on Her Dormitory Ground

During the year 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for a medical school interview. My plan was to arrange a place to stay after getting there, yet upon reaching the city, a major event was taking place and every single budget hostels and cheap hotels were completely sold out.

Coming from Singapore, I thought maybe I could spend the night at the airport – only to discover Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, is not open 24 hours. Unsure of how to proceed and getting a bit desperate, I hopped on a city-bound bus and found myself drifting in the direction of a gaming venue, thinking I could pass those hours in a place operating all night. This was not ideal in the best shape for acing the admissions interview the next day, yet, as a student on a tight budget, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more individuals who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared confused because a young woman saw me walking aimlessly through the city center and wondered if I was OK. I shared my predicament and immediately she suggested I could crash on the floor in her student dorm at the local university – which was perfect, considering that was where the important interview was the following day. She went further by offering me some free dinner: one of the filled rolls she had from her part-time job. I was able to use warm shower facilities and a protected spot to rest for the evening.

Looking back, it’s clear to me the significant risk she accepted as a young woman letting a man who was a complete stranger crash at her place. At that time I was in my own unawareness and not even thinking to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she took that chance – and remain incredibly thankful.

I never did attending that university, and I never saw her again, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of kindness. I hope life has repaid her good deed tenfold. Our society requires more individuals who show such kindness.