A Story of Surprising Kindness: The Time a University Student Let Me Sleep on Her Dorm Floor

During 2006, I made a trip to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I assumed to book a place to stay when I arrived, yet when I arrived, a major event was happening and all the backpackers hostels and cheap hotels were completely sold out.

As a visitor from Singapore, I thought the possibility of just sleep at the airport – only to discover Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate 24 hours. With no idea quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I caught a city-bound bus and began walking towards a gaming venue, thinking I might spend the evening in an establishment operating through the night. That wouldn’t put me at my peak for nailing a crucial interview the next morning, but as a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more people who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared out of place because a female student spotted me wandering around the city and wondered if I was OK. I recounted my predicament and without hesitation she suggested I could crash on the ground at her university residence at the local university – which was perfect, as that’s where the important interview would take place the next morning. She even offered me some free dinner: one stuffed baguettes she had from her work shift. I was able to use the bathroom and a protected spot and safe to sleep.

Looking back, I now understand what a big chance she undertook being a woman inviting a guy who was a complete stranger crash at her place. Back then I operated under my own unawareness and not even thinking about things like that. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she offered that help – yet very grateful.

I didn’t end up attending ANU, and I lost touch with that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of generosity. I hope karma has rewarded her act of kindness many times over. The world needs more people like that woman.