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During 2006, I made a trip to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. My plan was I would book a place to stay after getting there, however once I got there, a big convention was taking place and every single budget hostels and cheap hotels had no vacancies.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind maybe I could spend the night at the terminal – but soon learned the local airport, not like the one back home, does not operate around the clock. Unsure of quite what to do and growing worried, I hopped on a city-bound bus and started wandering towards a gaming venue, reasoning I could pass the night in an establishment that stayed open all night. This was not ideal in the ideal condition to succeed at an interview the next morning, but as a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

The world needs more people who show such kindness.

It seems I seemed confused since a young woman spotted me loitering in the city center and asked if everything was alright. I shared the story of my accommodation crisis and right away she said I could crash on the floor of her dormitory at the local university – a perfect solution, given that my the important interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided me some free dinner: one of the sandwiches she brought back her part-time job. I had access to a hot shower and somewhere safe and secure to sleep.

Looking back, it’s clear to me what a big chance she took being a woman letting a guy she’d just met crash at her place. In those days I was in my male privilege bubble and did not consider to such safety concerns. As a dad now, it astounds me she did that – and remain deeply appreciative.

I never did attending ANU, and I lost touch with that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of human compassion. My sincere desire is that karma has rewarded her good deed abundantly. We could all use more individuals like that woman.