A Tale of Unexpected Generosity: The Time a University Student Allowed Me to Stay on Her Dorm Floor

During the year 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. I figured to book a place to stay when I arrived, yet when I arrived, a big convention was happening and every single backpackers hostels and affordable lodging were fully booked.

Coming from Singapore, I considered the possibility of bed down in the terminal – but quickly found the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, closes 24 hours. With no idea how to proceed and growing worried, I hopped on public transport and found myself drifting in the direction of the casino, reasoning it was a place to spend those hours somewhere that was open 24/7. That wouldn’t put me at my peak for nailing a crucial interview the next day, yet, as a student on a tight budget, luxury accommodation was impossible.

The world needs more folks like that woman.

Apparently, I appeared out of place since a young woman spotted me walking aimlessly through the city center and asked if everything was alright. I recounted my predicament and without hesitation she offered I could crash on the ground of her dormitory at the Australian National University – a perfect solution, as that’s where the important interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided me some free dinner: a leftover stuffed baguettes she brought back her work shift. This gave me the bathroom and a protected spot to rest to spend the night.

Looking back, I can appreciate what a big chance she took as a young woman letting a guy she had only just encountered crash at her place. At that time I operated under my own unawareness and did not consider to the potential danger. As a dad now, I’m amazed she did that – yet very grateful.

I never did go to ANU, and I lost touch with the student afterwards, but I’ve never forgotten her selfless deed of generosity. It is my wish the universe has rewarded her good deed tenfold. The world needs more individuals who show such kindness.