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Back in 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I figured to arrange lodging after getting there, but when I arrived, a big convention was taking place and all the youth hostels and budget accommodation were fully booked.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I thought perhaps I could just sleep at the airport – but soon learned Canberra airport, not like the one back home, is not open around the clock. Unsure of what my next move should be and feeling increasingly desperate, I boarded public transport and began walking in the direction of a gaming venue, reasoning I could pass the night somewhere that stayed open through the night. That wouldn’t put me in the ideal condition for acing a crucial interview the next day, but as a broke student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

The world needs more individuals who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared lost because a young woman saw me loitering in downtown and inquired if everything was alright. I shared my situation and without hesitation she said I could sleep on a spare mattress of her dormitory at ANU – a perfect solution, considering that was where the important interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided some food: a leftover sandwiches she brought back her part-time job. This gave me a hot shower and somewhere safe to rest to sleep.

In retrospect, I can appreciate the significant risk she took being a woman allowing a guy who was a complete stranger stay in her room. At that time I existed within a bubble of male privilege and did not consider to such safety concerns. As a dad now, I am astonished she took that chance – but still deeply appreciative.

I never did go to ANU, and I never saw the student afterwards, but her act remains etched in my mind her amazing act of human compassion. I hope the universe has returned her generosity abundantly. The world needs more people with such compassion.