A Tale of Surprising Kindness: When a University Student Let Me Sleep on Her Dormitory Ground
Back in 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I assumed to book accommodation after getting there, yet when I arrived, a major event was in town and every single backpackers hostels and budget accommodation were fully booked.
Coming from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind maybe I could spend the night at the airport – only to discover the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, is not open around the clock. With no idea what my next move should be and growing worried, I hopped on a city-bound bus and began walking towards the casino, reasoning I could pass the evening somewhere operating 24/7. That wouldn’t put me in the ideal condition for nailing the admissions interview the next morning, however, being a broke student, luxury accommodation was impossible.
The world needs more folks who show such kindness.
I must have looked out of place since a female student saw me loitering in the city center and asked if I was OK. I explained my predicament and without hesitation she offered I was welcome to sleep on the ground at her university residence at the Australian National University – a perfect solution, considering that was where my interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided me some free dinner: one of the stuffed baguettes she had from her evening job. I had access to the bathroom and a secure location and secure to sleep.
Looking back, I now understand the enormous leap of faith she accepted as a young woman inviting a guy who was a complete stranger sleep on her floor. Back then I was in my own unawareness and did not consider about things like that. Now, as a father, it astounds me she took that chance – but still very grateful.
Ultimately, I did not study at the Australian National University, and I never saw that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of generosity. It is my wish life has rewarded her act of kindness many times over. The world needs more people with such compassion.
