🔗 Share this article

Back in 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I assumed to arrange a place to stay after getting there, however when I arrived, a big convention was happening and every single budget hostels and cheap hotels were completely sold out.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind perhaps I could just sleep at the terminal – but soon learned the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate all night. Not knowing quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I boarded a city-bound bus and started wandering near the casino, reasoning I might spend those hours in an establishment that stayed open through the night. This was not ideal at my peak to succeed at a crucial interview the next morning, yet, as a student on a tight budget, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more people who show such kindness.

I must have looked confused since a woman spotted me walking aimlessly through the city center and inquired if I was OK. I shared my situation and without hesitation she suggested I was welcome to sleep on the ground in her student dorm at the Australian National University – which was perfect, given that my my medical school interview would take place the next morning. She went further by offering me some free dinner: a leftover sandwiches she brought back her work shift. This gave me the bathroom and a protected spot to rest for the evening.

Looking back, I now understand what a big chance she accepted as a woman letting a guy she’d just met stay in her room. In those days I existed within my male privilege bubble and not even thinking about things like that. Now, as a father, I am astonished she took that chance – but still incredibly thankful.

I didn’t end up attending that university, and I lost touch with the student afterwards, but I’ve never forgotten that incredible gesture of generosity. I hope the universe has returned her generosity many times over. We could all use more people who show such kindness.