🔗 Share this article An Account of Surprising Generosity: The Time a Student Allowed Me to Sleep on Her Dorm Ground Back in 2006, I made a trip to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. My plan was to arrange a place to stay upon arrival, but upon reaching the city, a major event was happening and all the backpackers hostels and affordable lodging were fully booked. Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I considered maybe I could just sleep at the airport – only to discover Canberra airport, not like the one back home, is not open all night. With no idea what my next move should be and growing worried, I boarded a bus into town and began walking towards the casino, thinking it was a place to spend the evening in an establishment that stayed open through the night. Admittedly, this plan in the best shape for nailing a crucial interview the following day, however, being a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach. We could all use more individuals like that woman. I must have looked confused since a woman spotted me loitering in the city center and inquired if I was OK. I explained my predicament and right away she suggested I could sleep on the ground at her university residence at the local university – which was perfect, considering that was where my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. She even offered me some free dinner: a leftover sandwiches she had taken home her part-time job. I was able to use a hot shower and a secure location to rest to sleep. With hindsight, it’s clear to me the enormous leap of faith she undertook being a woman allowing a man she had only just encountered sleep on her floor. In those days I existed within my own unawareness and was oblivious to such safety concerns. Now, as a father, I am astonished she took that chance – but still deeply appreciative. Ultimately, I did not study at the Australian National University, and I never saw the student afterwards, but her act remains etched in my mind her selfless deed of generosity. My sincere desire is that life has repaid her generosity tenfold. Our society requires more individuals like that woman.