A Account of Surprising Generosity: When a Student Let Me Sleep on Her Dormitory Ground
Back in 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. My plan was I would book accommodation when I arrived, but once I got there, a large conference was in town and all the budget hostels and budget accommodation were completely sold out.
Hailing from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind perhaps I could just sleep at the airport – only to discover that airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate around the clock. With no idea how to proceed and getting a bit desperate, I hopped on public transport and found myself drifting in the direction of the casino, believing I could pass those hours somewhere that was open through the night. This was not ideal in the ideal condition to succeed at a crucial interview the next day, but as a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach.
Our society requires more people like that woman.
It seems I seemed confused because a young woman saw me wandering around downtown and inquired if everything was alright. I shared my predicament and right away she said I could crash on the ground at her university residence at the local university – an ideal turn of events, given that my my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided a meal: one filled rolls she had taken home her part-time job. This gave me warm shower facilities and somewhere safe and safe to spend the night.
With hindsight, it’s clear to me the significant risk she accepted as a young woman inviting a male stranger she’d just met sleep on her floor. At that time I operated under a bubble of male privilege and not even thinking to such safety concerns. As a dad now, I’m amazed she did that – and remain deeply appreciative.
I never did go to that university, and I lost touch with that kind stranger again, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of kindness. My sincere desire is that karma has rewarded her good deed many times over. Our society requires more folks with such compassion.
