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Back in the year 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. My plan was I would book accommodation after getting there, however once I got there, a large conference was in town and every single backpackers hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of just sleep at the airport – but soon learned that airport, not like the one back home, is not open all night. With no idea quite what to do and growing worried, I caught a bus into town and found myself drifting near the casino, reasoning it was a place to spend those hours in an establishment that stayed open 24/7. That wouldn’t put me in the ideal condition for nailing a crucial interview the next morning, yet, as a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.

Our society requires more folks with such compassion.

Apparently, I appeared confused because a young woman saw me walking aimlessly through the city center and inquired if I was OK. I shared my predicament and right away she said I was welcome to sleep on the floor of her dormitory at the local university – a perfect solution, considering that was where my medical school interview would take place the next morning. Generously, she also provided me some free dinner: one stuffed baguettes she had taken home her evening job. This gave me the bathroom and a protected spot and secure for the evening.

Looking back, I now understand what a big chance she undertook as a young woman letting a male stranger she had only just encountered sleep on her floor. At that time I was in my male privilege bubble and not even thinking to such safety concerns. Now, as a father, I’m amazed she did that – and remain incredibly thankful.

I never did go to ANU, and I lost touch with that kind stranger again, but I’ve never forgotten her selfless deed of kindness. I hope karma has returned her generosity tenfold. We could all use more people like that woman.