An Account of Surprising Kindness: When a University Student Let Me Sleep on Her Dormitory Ground
Back in 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. My plan was to book a place to stay upon arrival, yet when I arrived, a major event was in town and all the youth hostels and cheap hotels had no vacancies.
Coming from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of spend the night at the airport – but soon learned Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate all night. Not knowing how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I caught public transport and began walking near the casino, reasoning it was a place to spend the night in an establishment operating through the night. Admittedly, this plan at my peak for nailing the admissions interview the next day, but as a cash-strapped student, luxury accommodation was impossible.
We could all use more folks like that woman.
Apparently, I appeared lost because a female student spotted me loitering in the city and inquired if everything was alright. I recounted the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she suggested I could sleep on a spare mattress of her dormitory at the local university – which was perfect, considering that was where my medical school interview would take place the next morning. Generously, she also provided me some free dinner: one filled rolls she had from her part-time job. I was able to use a hot shower and a protected spot and secure to spend the night.
In retrospect, it’s clear to me the enormous leap of faith she undertook as a young woman allowing a male stranger she’d just met sleep on her floor. At that time I operated under a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to such safety concerns. Now, as a father, I am astonished she did that – and remain incredibly thankful.
I didn’t end up attending ANU, and I didn’t meet the student afterwards, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of kindness. I hope life has rewarded her act of kindness abundantly. We could all use more individuals who show such kindness.
