A Tale of Surprising Generosity: The Time a University Student Allowed Me to Stay on Her Dormitory Ground
Back in 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I figured to book accommodation when I arrived, yet when I arrived, a major event was in town and all the budget hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.
Coming from Singapore, I thought perhaps I could spend the night at the airport – but quickly found that airport, unlike Singapore’s, closes 24 hours. With no idea what my next move should be and feeling increasingly desperate, I caught a bus into town and started wandering towards the casino, thinking it was a place to spend the evening in an establishment that was open through the night. This was not ideal in the ideal condition for acing a crucial interview the next morning, however, being a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach.
We could all use more people who show such kindness.
I must have looked out of place as a woman saw me loitering in the city and inquired whether I needed help. I explained my predicament and immediately she suggested I could sleep on the ground at her university residence at the Australian National University – a perfect solution, considering that was where the important interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided some food: one stuffed baguettes she brought back her evening job. I had access to warm shower facilities and somewhere safe and safe to sleep.
In retrospect, I now understand the enormous leap of faith she undertook as a young woman allowing a guy who was a complete stranger crash at her place. Back then I existed within a bubble of male privilege and did not consider to such safety concerns. Now, as a father, it astounds me she offered that help – but still very grateful.
Ultimately, I did not study at the Australian National University, and I didn’t meet that kind stranger again, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of generosity. My sincere desire is that karma has returned her good deed tenfold. We could all use more individuals like that woman.
