A Account of Unexpected Generosity: The Time a University Student Allowed Me to Sleep on Her Dorm Floor

During the year 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. I figured I would book a place to stay when I arrived, yet upon reaching the city, a big convention was taking place and all the youth hostels and affordable lodging were fully booked.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of spend the night at the airport – but soon learned that airport, unlike Singapore’s, does not operate 24 hours. With no idea what my next move should be and getting a bit desperate, I caught a bus into town and began walking towards the casino, thinking I could pass those hours in a place operating through the night. Admittedly, this plan at my peak for nailing a crucial interview the next morning, but as a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.

Our society requires more individuals with such compassion.

Apparently, I appeared out of place as a young woman spotted me walking aimlessly through the city center and inquired if everything was alright. I explained my predicament and immediately she said I was welcome to sleep on the ground in her student dorm at the local university – a perfect solution, as that’s where my interview was the following day. She went further by offering me some free dinner: a leftover sandwiches she brought back her evening job. I was able to use warm shower facilities and a secure location to rest for the evening.

With hindsight, I now understand the enormous leap of faith she took as a young woman inviting a male stranger who was a complete stranger stay in her room. In those days I operated under my male privilege bubble and not even thinking about things like that. As a dad now, it astounds me she offered that help – yet deeply appreciative.

I didn’t end up study at the Australian National University, and I lost touch with the student afterwards, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of human compassion. I hope the universe has rewarded her good deed abundantly. Our society requires more individuals who show such kindness.