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During the year 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I figured to book accommodation when I arrived, but upon reaching the city, a big convention was happening and all the backpackers hostels and budget accommodation were fully booked.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind maybe I could spend the night at the airport – but quickly found Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, closes 24 hours. Not knowing how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on public transport and began walking in the direction of a gaming venue, believing I might spend the night in a place operating all night. This was not ideal in the best shape for nailing an interview the following day, but as a student on a tight budget, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more folks who show such kindness.

I must have looked confused because a female student spotted me wandering around the city and asked if I was OK. I explained the story of my accommodation crisis and right away she offered I could sleep on a spare mattress of her dormitory at the Australian National University – which was perfect, considering that was where my medical school interview was the following day. She went further by offering a meal: one of the stuffed baguettes she brought back her evening job. This gave me the bathroom and somewhere safe to rest to spend the night.

In retrospect, I now understand what a big chance she undertook as a woman allowing a man she’d just met sleep on her floor. Back then I existed within my male privilege bubble and did not consider to such safety concerns. As a dad now, it astounds me she took that chance – but still incredibly thankful.

Ultimately, I did not attending ANU, and I never saw that kind stranger again, but her act remains etched in my mind her amazing act of generosity. I hope the universe has rewarded her act of kindness abundantly. Our society requires more people with such compassion.