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Back in 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed to arrange lodging upon arrival, yet once I got there, a big convention was in town and every single youth hostels and affordable lodging had no vacancies.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind maybe I could just sleep at the airport – but quickly found the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, closes all night. With no idea quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on public transport and found myself drifting in the direction of a gaming venue, believing I might spend the night in a place that was open all night. This was not ideal in the ideal condition for nailing the admissions interview the following day, however, being a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

We could all use more folks like that woman.

It seems I seemed lost because a female student saw me loitering in downtown and wondered if I was OK. I recounted the story of my accommodation crisis and right away she suggested I could sleep on the ground at her university residence at ANU – which was perfect, as that’s where my interview was the following day. She even offered a meal: one of the stuffed baguettes she brought back her work shift. I had access to the bathroom and a protected spot and safe for the evening.

With hindsight, it’s clear to me the significant risk she took being a woman letting a guy who was a complete stranger stay in her room. At that time I was in my male privilege bubble and was oblivious about things like that. Today, as a parent, I am astonished she took that chance – and remain incredibly thankful.

I didn’t end up go to the Australian National University, and I lost touch with that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me her selfless deed of human compassion. I hope karma has rewarded her act of kindness abundantly. The world needs more people who show such kindness.