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During the year 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed to arrange lodging upon arrival, but once I got there, a large conference was in town and all the backpackers hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.

Hailing from Singapore, I considered perhaps I could bed down in the airport – but quickly found that airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, closes all night. Not knowing how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on a city-bound bus and began walking near the casino, thinking I might spend those hours in an establishment operating all night. Admittedly, this plan in the ideal condition to succeed at the admissions interview the next morning, however, being a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

The world needs more people who show such kindness.

I must have looked lost because a young woman noticed me wandering around downtown and inquired if I was OK. I recounted my predicament and without hesitation she offered I was welcome to sleep on a spare mattress at her university residence at ANU – an ideal turn of events, considering that was where my interview would take place the next morning. She went further by offering me some free dinner: one filled rolls she had from her evening job. I was able to use the bathroom and a secure location to rest for the evening.

With hindsight, I now understand the enormous leap of faith she took as a woman allowing a guy who was a complete stranger crash at her place. In those days I operated under a bubble of male privilege and not even thinking to such safety concerns. Today, as a parent, I am astonished she took that chance – yet deeply appreciative.

I didn’t end up attending that university, and I never saw that kind stranger again, but I’ve never forgotten her selfless deed of generosity. It is my wish life has repaid her good deed abundantly. We could all use more individuals with such compassion.