An Account of Unexpected Kindness: The Time a University Student Allowed Me to Stay on Her Dorm Ground
Back in the year 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I figured to book a place to stay upon arrival, but when I arrived, a large conference was taking place and all the backpackers hostels and affordable lodging were fully booked.
Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of bed down in the airport – but quickly found that airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate all night. Unsure of how to proceed and getting a bit desperate, I caught public transport and found myself drifting towards a gaming venue, believing I could pass those hours in a place that stayed open through the night. Admittedly, this plan at my peak for acing the admissions interview the following day, however, being a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.
We could all use more individuals with such compassion.
It seems I seemed lost as a female student spotted me walking aimlessly through the city and wondered if everything was alright. I shared my situation and without hesitation she said I could crash on the ground of her dormitory at the local university – an ideal turn of events, given that my my interview would take place the next morning. Generously, she also provided me some free dinner: a leftover filled rolls she brought back her work shift. I had access to the bathroom and somewhere safe and secure to spend the night.
Looking back, I can appreciate what a big chance she accepted as a woman allowing a male stranger who was a complete stranger stay in her room. At that time I operated under my male privilege bubble and not even thinking about things like that. Now, as a father, it astounds me she took that chance – yet deeply appreciative.
I didn’t end up study at that university, and I lost touch with the student afterwards, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of kindness. My sincere desire is that the universe has repaid her generosity abundantly. We could all use more folks who show such kindness.
