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During 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I figured I would book a place to stay when I arrived, however upon reaching the city, a large conference was in town and all the backpackers hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind maybe I could spend the night at the terminal – but soon learned Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate around the clock. Unsure of how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I caught public transport and began walking near a gaming venue, reasoning it was a place to spend the night in a place that was open 24/7. This was not ideal at my peak to succeed at the admissions interview the next day, however, being a student on a tight budget, I couldn’t afford.

We could all use more folks who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared lost because a woman spotted me loitering in the city center and asked if I was OK. I explained my situation and right away she offered I was welcome to sleep on the ground of her dormitory at ANU – a perfect solution, as that’s where the important interview would take place the next morning. She went further by offering me some free dinner: a leftover stuffed baguettes she had from her part-time job. This gave me the bathroom and somewhere safe and secure for the evening.

With hindsight, I now understand the enormous leap of faith she undertook as a young woman letting a guy she had only just encountered sleep on her floor. Back then I operated under my male privilege bubble and not even thinking to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she did that – yet incredibly thankful.

I didn’t end up attending the Australian National University, and I never saw her again, but her act remains etched in my mind her amazing act of human compassion. It is my wish the universe has repaid her act of kindness abundantly. Our society requires more folks who show such kindness.