A Account of Unexpected Kindness: When a University Student Allowed Me to Sleep on Her Dormitory Floor

Back in 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed to arrange lodging after getting there, however upon reaching the city, a big convention was taking place and every single backpackers hostels and affordable lodging were fully booked.

As a visitor from Singapore, I thought maybe I could just sleep at the airport – only to discover Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, is not open all night. Not knowing how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on public transport and began walking towards the casino, reasoning I might spend those hours in an establishment that stayed open through the night. That wouldn’t put me in the best shape for nailing the admissions interview the next morning, but as a student on a tight budget, luxury accommodation was impossible.

The world needs more folks like that woman.

I must have looked out of place as a female student saw me wandering around the city and asked if I was OK. I shared the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she offered I was welcome to sleep on the floor of her dormitory at the local university – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided a meal: a leftover stuffed baguettes she brought back her part-time job. I was able to use warm shower facilities and a protected spot to rest to spend the night.

Looking back, it’s clear to me what a big chance she took as a woman letting a guy she had only just encountered crash at her place. At that time I was in a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to the potential danger. Now, as a father, I’m amazed she offered that help – and remain very grateful.

I never did study at the Australian National University, and I never saw her again, but I’ve never forgotten that incredible gesture of human compassion. My sincere desire is that life has repaid her act of kindness tenfold. The world needs more people with such compassion.