An Account of Surprising Generosity: The Time a University Student Allowed Me to Sleep on Her Dormitory Ground
During 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. My plan was to arrange a place to stay after getting there, however once I got there, a major event was in town and all the youth hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.
Coming from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of bed down in the airport – but soon learned Canberra airport, not like the one back home, does not operate all night. Unsure of how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on a city-bound bus and found myself drifting in the direction of the casino, thinking I could pass the night in an establishment that was open all night. Admittedly, this plan in the best shape for acing a crucial interview the following day, however, being a student on a tight budget, I couldn’t afford.
Our society requires more individuals like that woman.
Apparently, I appeared out of place because a woman spotted me walking aimlessly through the city center and asked if everything was alright. I shared my predicament and without hesitation she offered I was welcome to sleep on the floor at her university residence at the local university – a perfect solution, considering that was where my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. She even offered me some free dinner: a leftover sandwiches she had taken home her work shift. This gave me a hot shower and a protected spot to rest for the evening.
With hindsight, I now understand the enormous leap of faith she undertook as a woman inviting a man she had only just encountered stay in her room. At that time I existed within my own unawareness and was oblivious to such safety concerns. As a dad now, I’m amazed she took that chance – but still incredibly thankful.
Ultimately, I did not attending the Australian National University, and I never saw her again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of kindness. It is my wish life has repaid her good deed many times over. Our society requires more individuals with such compassion.
