A Story of Surprising Kindness: The Time a University Student Let Me Sleep on Her Dorm Ground
Back in 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed to book a place to stay when I arrived, however once I got there, a large conference was happening and all the backpackers hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.
Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of just sleep at the airport – but soon learned that airport, unlike Singapore’s, is not open around the clock. Not knowing quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I boarded public transport and found myself drifting near a gaming venue, believing I might spend the night in a place that stayed open through the night. That wouldn’t put me at my peak to succeed at a crucial interview the next morning, yet, as a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.
We could all use more people who show such kindness.
I must have looked confused since a female student noticed me walking aimlessly through the city center and asked if I was OK. I recounted my predicament and immediately she suggested I could crash on the floor in her student dorm at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, considering that was where the important interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided a meal: one of the filled rolls she had taken home her part-time job. I had access to a hot shower and somewhere safe and secure for the evening.
Looking back, I now understand the significant risk she took being a woman allowing a man she’d just met crash at her place. Back then I existed within a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, I am astonished she offered that help – and remain very grateful.
Ultimately, I did not attending the Australian National University, and I didn’t meet the student afterwards, but I’ve never forgotten that incredible gesture of kindness. I hope the universe has rewarded her generosity many times over. The world needs more people like that woman.
