The kindness of strangers: I couldn’t afford a pricey hotel, then a student let me sleep on her dormitory floor

11 hours ago 5

Back in 2006, I went to Canberra for a medical school interview. I figured I would book accommodation when I arrived but when I arrived, there was a big convention in town and all the backpackers hostels and budget accommodation were fully booked.

Coming from Singapore, I thought perhaps I could just sleep at the airport – but quickly found Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, is not open 24 hours. Not knowing quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I caught a bus into town, then started wandering towards the casino, thinking I might spend the night in a place that was open all night. That wouldn’t put me in the ideal condition for nailing an interview the next morning, but as a broke student, I couldn’t afford a pricey hotel.

I must have looked lost because a young woman spotted me wandering around the city and asked if I was OK. I explained my situation and without hesitation she said I could sleep on the floor of her dormitory at the Australian National University – which was perfect, as that’s where my interview was the following day. She even offered me some free dinner, one of the stuffed baguettes she had taken home from her part-time job. I had access to a hot shower and somewhere safe and secure to spend the night.

In retrospect, I can appreciate what a big chance she took as a woman letting a man she’d just met sleep on her floor. Back then I was in my male privilege bubble and not even thinking about things like that. Now, as a father, I’m amazed she did that – but still very grateful.

I didn’t end up attending ANU, and I never saw her again, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of generosity. I hope the universe has repaid her act of kindness many times over. The world needs more people like that woman.