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During 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. I assumed to book a place to stay after getting there, however once I got there, a big convention was in town and every single youth hostels and affordable lodging had no vacancies.

Hailing from Singapore, I considered the possibility of bed down in the terminal – but quickly found that airport, unlike Singapore’s, is not open all night. Not knowing what my next move should be and growing worried, I caught public transport and began walking near a gaming venue, thinking I could pass those hours in an establishment operating through the night. That wouldn’t put me at my peak for nailing an interview the following day, however, being a cash-strapped student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

The world needs more folks like that woman.

It seems I seemed confused since a female student saw me wandering around downtown and asked whether I needed help. I recounted my predicament and without hesitation she said I could sleep on a spare mattress of her dormitory at ANU – an ideal turn of events, given that my the important interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided a meal: one of the filled rolls she had taken home her evening job. I had access to a hot shower and a protected spot to rest to spend the night.

In retrospect, I can appreciate the enormous leap of faith she accepted being a woman allowing a guy who was a complete stranger crash at her place. Back then I existed within a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to the potential danger. As a dad now, it astounds me she did that – and remain incredibly thankful.

I didn’t end up study at the Australian National University, and I didn’t meet her again, yet her memory has stayed with me her selfless deed of human compassion. It is my wish the universe has repaid her act of kindness many times over. We could all use more individuals with such compassion.