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During 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. My plan was I would book a place to stay after getting there, yet upon reaching the city, a large conference was happening and all the youth hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.

Hailing from Singapore, I thought maybe I could spend the night at the terminal – but quickly found the local airport, unlike Singapore’s, is not open all night. With no idea quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I boarded a bus into town and began walking in the direction of a gaming venue, reasoning I might spend the evening somewhere operating 24/7. This was not ideal at my peak for acing a crucial interview the next day, but as a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

We could all use more folks who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared confused because a woman saw me walking aimlessly through downtown and asked if I was OK. I shared my situation and immediately she suggested I could sleep on the floor in her student dorm at the local university – an ideal turn of events, considering that was where my interview would take place the next morning. She even offered me some free dinner: one of the sandwiches she had from her work shift. I had access to the bathroom and somewhere safe and safe for the evening.

In retrospect, it’s clear to me the significant risk she accepted as a young woman allowing a guy she’d just met stay in her room. Back then I existed within a bubble of male privilege and did not consider to such safety concerns. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she did that – but still deeply appreciative.

Ultimately, I did not study at ANU, and I never saw the student afterwards, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of human compassion. It is my wish karma has returned her good deed many times over. Our society requires more folks who show such kindness.