An Story of Surprising Kindness: The Time a Student Let Me Stay on Her Dormitory Floor
Back in 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for a medical school interview. I assumed to book lodging after getting there, but once I got there, a major event was in town and all the backpackers hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.
Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind perhaps I could spend the night at the terminal – but soon learned that airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate all night. Not knowing what my next move should be and growing worried, I boarded a city-bound bus and started wandering in the direction of a gaming venue, reasoning I could pass the evening somewhere operating 24/7. This was not ideal in the best shape for acing the admissions interview the following day, however, being a cash-strapped student, luxury accommodation was impossible.
The world needs more individuals like that woman.
I must have looked out of place because a female student saw me walking aimlessly through the city and asked if I was OK. I recounted the story of my accommodation crisis and without hesitation she suggested I was welcome to sleep on a spare mattress at her university residence at the Australian National University – which was perfect, as that’s where my medical school interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided a meal: one sandwiches she had from her work shift. This gave me a hot shower and a protected spot and safe to spend the night.
In retrospect, I now understand the significant risk she accepted as a young woman allowing a man she’d just met sleep on her floor. In those days I operated under a bubble of male privilege and not even thinking to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she did that – and remain very grateful.
I never did go to ANU, and I never saw the student afterwards, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of human compassion. My sincere desire is that the universe has repaid her act of kindness tenfold. We could all use more individuals like that woman.
