An Tale of Surprising Generosity: When a University Student Allowed Me to Sleep on Her Dorm Ground

Back in 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. My plan was to arrange accommodation after getting there, however once I got there, a major event was in town and all the youth hostels and affordable lodging were fully booked.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I considered maybe I could just sleep at the terminal – only to discover Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, does not operate all night. Unsure of quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I hopped on a bus into town and began walking near the casino, thinking I might spend the evening somewhere that stayed open through the night. That wouldn’t put me in the best shape to succeed at the admissions interview the following day, but as a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

The world needs more people with such compassion.

I must have looked out of place because a woman spotted me walking aimlessly through the city and asked if I was OK. I explained my situation and without hesitation she said I was welcome to sleep on the floor in her student dorm at the Australian National University – a perfect solution, given that my my interview would take place the next morning. She even offered some food: one filled rolls she brought back her work shift. I had access to the bathroom and a protected spot and safe to spend the night.

With hindsight, I can appreciate what a big chance she accepted being a woman letting a man she had only just encountered sleep on her floor. At that time I operated under my own unawareness and not even thinking to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she took that chance – but still very grateful.

Ultimately, I did not go to that university, and I never saw her again, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of generosity. It is my wish life has rewarded her generosity tenfold. We could all use more individuals like that woman.