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During 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. I assumed I would book a place to stay upon arrival, yet when I arrived, a big convention was in town and every single budget hostels and cheap hotels were fully booked.

Hailing from Singapore, I considered maybe I could spend the night at the airport – but quickly found the local airport, not like the one back home, is not open all night. Not knowing quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I caught public transport and found myself drifting near the casino, reasoning it was a place to spend the evening somewhere operating all night. That wouldn’t put me at my peak for acing the admissions interview the following day, however, being a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.

Our society requires more people who show such kindness.

It seems I seemed out of place because a young woman saw me walking aimlessly through the city center and wondered whether I needed help. I explained my predicament and immediately she said I was welcome to sleep on the ground at her university residence at the local university – an ideal turn of events, given that my my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided some food: a leftover stuffed baguettes she had from her part-time job. I had access to a hot shower and a protected spot and safe to sleep.

In retrospect, I can appreciate what a big chance she took as a young woman allowing a man she’d just met stay in her room. Back then I operated under a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to the potential danger. As a dad now, I am astonished she took that chance – but still incredibly thankful.

Ultimately, I did not go to ANU, and I lost touch with the student afterwards, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of generosity. It is my wish karma has repaid her generosity many times over. We could all use more people like that woman.