An Account of Surprising Generosity: The Time a Student Allowed Me to Stay on Her Dorm Floor

During 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. I figured to book a place to stay upon arrival, however when I arrived, a large conference was taking place and every single backpackers hostels and cheap hotels were completely sold out.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind perhaps I could just sleep at the terminal – only to discover the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, closes all night. Not knowing quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I hopped on public transport and started wandering in the direction of the casino, reasoning I could pass those hours in a place that was open through the night. This was not ideal in the ideal condition for nailing a crucial interview the following day, yet, as a cash-strapped student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

The world needs more individuals like that woman.

Apparently, I appeared confused as a woman saw me wandering around downtown and asked if everything was alright. I explained my situation and right away she suggested I could crash on the ground in her student dorm at ANU – which was perfect, considering that was where my interview would take place the next morning. She went further by offering some food: one of the filled rolls she had taken home her part-time job. I was able to use warm shower facilities and somewhere safe to rest for the evening.

Looking back, it’s clear to me the enormous leap of faith she undertook as a young woman letting a man she’d just met stay in her room. At that time I was in a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to such safety concerns. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she did that – and remain very grateful.

I never did attending ANU, and I never saw the student afterwards, yet her memory has stayed with me her selfless deed of kindness. It is my wish karma has returned her act of kindness many times over. Our society requires more people with such compassion.