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Back in 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed to book a place to stay upon arrival, yet once I got there, a large conference was taking place and all the backpackers hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.

As a visitor from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of spend the night at the terminal – but soon learned Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, is not open 24 hours. Unsure of how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I boarded a city-bound bus and found myself drifting near the casino, believing it was a place to spend the evening somewhere that stayed open all night. This was not ideal in the ideal condition for nailing a crucial interview the next day, yet, as a broke student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

We could all use more people who show such kindness.

It seems I seemed lost because a female student saw me loitering in the city center and asked whether I needed help. I shared my predicament and immediately she offered I could crash on a spare mattress at her university residence at the local university – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided a meal: one sandwiches she had from her work shift. This gave me the bathroom and a secure location and safe for the evening.

Looking back, I now understand what a big chance she undertook as a woman allowing a male stranger who was a complete stranger crash at her place. At that time I operated under my male privilege bubble and was oblivious about things like that. Now, as a father, it astounds me she offered that help – and remain incredibly thankful.

Ultimately, I did not study at that university, and I lost touch with her again, but her act remains etched in my mind her selfless deed of human compassion. My sincere desire is that karma has returned her act of kindness tenfold. The world needs more folks like that woman.