A Story of Unexpected Generosity: The Time a Student Allowed Me to Stay on Her Dorm Ground
During the year 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. My plan was to arrange lodging when I arrived, but upon reaching the city, a big convention was in town and every single youth hostels and cheap hotels were fully booked.
As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I thought the possibility of spend the night at the terminal – but soon learned the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate all night. Unsure of what my next move should be and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on public transport and began walking in the direction of a gaming venue, reasoning it was a place to spend the evening in an establishment operating 24/7. This was not ideal at my peak for nailing a crucial interview the next morning, but as a cash-strapped student, luxury accommodation was impossible.
Our society requires more folks who show such kindness.
I must have looked out of place because a female student spotted me loitering in the city center and inquired if I was OK. I explained my situation and without hesitation she said I could sleep on the ground in her student dorm at the Australian National University – a perfect solution, as that’s where the important interview would take place the next morning. She went further by offering me some free dinner: a leftover sandwiches she brought back her part-time job. I had access to a hot shower and a secure location to rest to sleep.
With hindsight, I can appreciate what a big chance she undertook as a woman letting a male stranger she had only just encountered stay in her room. At that time I existed within my own unawareness and did not consider about things like that. Today, as a parent, I am astonished she took that chance – but still very grateful.
I didn’t end up attending that university, and I didn’t meet that kind stranger again, but I’ve never forgotten that incredible gesture of generosity. I hope life has returned her good deed tenfold. We could all use more individuals with such compassion.
