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During the year 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. I assumed to book accommodation after getting there, yet upon reaching the city, a large conference was happening and every single youth hostels and affordable lodging were fully booked.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I considered the possibility of bed down in the terminal – only to discover that airport, unlike Singapore’s, is not open all night. Not knowing quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on public transport and started wandering towards a gaming venue, believing I could pass those hours in a place that was open through the night. This was not ideal in the best shape to succeed at a crucial interview the following day, yet, as a cash-strapped student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

Our society requires more people who show such kindness.

It seems I seemed out of place because a young woman noticed me loitering in downtown and asked if I was OK. I explained the story of my accommodation crisis and without hesitation she suggested I could crash on the floor at her university residence at ANU – a perfect solution, given that my my medical school interview would take place the next morning. She went further by offering some food: one stuffed baguettes she had from her evening job. I was able to use the bathroom and a secure location to rest to spend the night.

In retrospect, it’s clear to me what a big chance she undertook as a woman inviting a guy she had only just encountered stay in her room. In those days I operated under my male privilege bubble and not even thinking to the potential danger. Now, as a father, I am astonished she did that – and remain incredibly thankful.

I didn’t end up go to that university, and I lost touch with that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of human compassion. I hope karma has returned her good deed tenfold. We could all use more people like that woman.