An Account of Surprising Generosity: The Time a Student Allowed Me to Sleep on Her Dormitory Floor

During 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. I figured I would book accommodation when I arrived, but when I arrived, a big convention was taking place and every single youth hostels and affordable lodging had no vacancies.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I considered perhaps I could just sleep at the airport – but soon learned the local airport, unlike Singapore’s, is not open all night. Not knowing what my next move should be and getting a bit desperate, I boarded a city-bound bus and found myself drifting in the direction of the casino, thinking I might spend the evening in a place operating all night. Admittedly, this plan in the best shape for acing the admissions interview the next day, yet, as a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

Our society requires more people who show such kindness.

It seems I seemed out of place since a young woman saw me wandering around the city center and wondered if I was OK. I recounted the story of my accommodation crisis and without hesitation she said I could sleep on the floor in her student dorm at the Australian National University – which was perfect, considering that was where my interview would take place the next morning. She went further by offering a meal: a leftover filled rolls she brought back her work shift. I had access to a hot shower and somewhere safe to rest to spend the night.

With hindsight, it’s clear to me the significant risk she took being a woman inviting a male stranger she had only just encountered stay in her room. In those days I existed within a bubble of male privilege and did not consider to such safety concerns. Now, as a father, I’m amazed she took that chance – yet deeply appreciative.

Ultimately, I did not attending ANU, and I didn’t meet that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of human compassion. It is my wish the universe has returned her good deed tenfold. Our society requires more individuals like that woman.