A Account of Surprising Kindness: The Time a University Student Let Me Stay on Her Dorm Floor

Back in 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. My plan was I would book a place to stay when I arrived, yet upon reaching the city, a major event was happening and all the youth hostels and affordable lodging were fully booked.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, I thought maybe I could bed down in the terminal – only to discover Canberra airport, not like the one back home, is not open all night. Not knowing what my next move should be and growing worried, I caught a bus into town and started wandering in the direction of a gaming venue, believing it was a place to spend the evening somewhere operating 24/7. Admittedly, this plan in the best shape for nailing the admissions interview the next morning, but as a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.

We could all use more folks like that woman.

I must have looked confused since a woman noticed me loitering in downtown and asked if I was OK. I explained my predicament and without hesitation she offered I could sleep on the floor in her student dorm at ANU – which was perfect, considering that was where the important interview was scheduled for the next day. She went further by offering me some free dinner: one of the filled rolls she had taken home her work shift. I had access to a hot shower and somewhere safe and safe to sleep.

Looking back, it’s clear to me the enormous leap of faith she undertook being a woman letting a male stranger who was a complete stranger crash at her place. In those days I existed within a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to such safety concerns. As a dad now, it astounds me she took that chance – and remain very grateful.

Ultimately, I did not go to ANU, and I never saw the student afterwards, but her act remains etched in my mind her selfless deed of generosity. It is my wish the universe has returned her act of kindness many times over. The world needs more people like that woman.