An Tale of Surprising Kindness: The Time a Student Allowed Me to Stay on Her Dorm Ground

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

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I considered the possibility of bed down in the airport – only to discover the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, closes around the clock. Not knowing what my next move should be and growing worried, I hopped on a city-bound bus and found myself drifting near the casino, reasoning it was a place to spend the night in a place that stayed open all night. Admittedly, this plan in the best shape for nailing the admissions interview the following day, however, being a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

We could all use more individuals with such compassion.

It seems I seemed lost since a woman noticed me walking aimlessly through the city center and asked if I was OK. I recounted my situation and right away she said I could crash on the floor at her university residence at the Australian National University – a perfect solution, as that’s where my medical school interview would take place the next morning. She went further by offering a meal: a leftover sandwiches she brought back her work shift. I had access to a hot shower and a protected spot and secure to sleep.

With hindsight, it’s clear to me the significant risk she accepted being a woman letting a man who was a complete stranger crash at her place. Back then I was in a bubble of male privilege and not even thinking about things like that. Today, as a parent, I am astonished she did that – but still incredibly thankful.

I didn’t end up go to that university, and I lost touch with that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of generosity. I hope karma has rewarded her act of kindness abundantly. Our society requires more people who show such kindness.