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During 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed to book accommodation upon arrival, however upon reaching the city, a big convention was taking place and all the backpackers hostels and budget accommodation were fully booked.

Coming from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind perhaps I could spend the night at the airport – but quickly found the local airport, not like the one back home, is not open 24 hours. Unsure of what my next move should be and growing worried, I boarded public transport and started wandering near the casino, believing I might spend the night in an establishment that stayed open all night. That wouldn’t put me in the best shape for nailing an interview the next morning, but as a student on a tight budget, luxury accommodation was impossible.

Our society requires more people who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared lost because a young woman saw me walking aimlessly through downtown and wondered if I was OK. I explained my predicament and immediately she said I could crash on the floor in her student dorm at ANU – a perfect solution, given that my my interview was the following day. She even offered some food: one sandwiches she had taken home her evening job. I had access to the bathroom and a secure location and secure to sleep.

With hindsight, I now understand what a big chance she undertook as a woman letting a guy she had only just encountered crash at her place. At that time I existed within my own unawareness and not even thinking about things like that. As a dad now, it astounds me she offered that help – and remain incredibly thankful.

I didn’t end up study at the Australian National University, and I never saw that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of generosity. I hope the universe has rewarded her generosity many times over. The world needs more people with such compassion.