🔗 Share this article

During the year 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for a medical school interview. I assumed I would book accommodation when I arrived, but once I got there, a major event was taking place and all the budget hostels and affordable lodging were fully booked.

Coming from Singapore, I thought perhaps I could bed down in the airport – but quickly found that airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate around the clock. Unsure of quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I boarded a city-bound bus and began walking in the direction of a gaming venue, reasoning it was a place to spend the night in an establishment that stayed open through the night. That wouldn’t put me in the best shape for acing a crucial interview the following day, however, being a cash-strapped student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

We could all use more people who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared lost since a female student saw me walking aimlessly through the city center and inquired whether I needed help. I recounted my predicament and right away she suggested I was welcome to sleep on the floor of her dormitory at ANU – an ideal turn of events, considering that was where my medical school interview was the following day. She went further by offering me some free dinner: one stuffed baguettes she had from her part-time job. I was able to use a hot shower and somewhere safe and safe for the evening.

Looking back, I can appreciate the significant risk she undertook as a woman letting a male stranger she had only just encountered crash at her place. At that time I was in a bubble of male privilege and did not consider to the potential danger. As a dad now, I am astonished she offered that help – but still incredibly thankful.

I didn’t end up go to ANU, and I didn’t meet the student afterwards, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of generosity. I hope karma has repaid her act of kindness abundantly. Our society requires more folks with such compassion.