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During 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed I would book a place to stay when I arrived, however once I got there, a big convention was taking place and every single budget hostels and cheap hotels were completely sold out.

Hailing from Singapore, I thought the possibility of just sleep at the airport – only to discover the local airport, not like the one back home, closes around the clock. Not knowing quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on a city-bound bus and started wandering near a gaming venue, believing I might spend the night somewhere that was open all night. That wouldn’t put me in the best shape for nailing a crucial interview the following day, but as a student on a tight budget, luxury accommodation was impossible.

The world needs more individuals like that woman.

I must have looked out of place as a female student spotted me wandering around downtown and inquired if I was OK. I explained my situation and immediately she offered I could sleep on the ground at her university residence at the local university – a perfect solution, considering that was where my interview would take place the next morning. She even offered a meal: one sandwiches she brought back her evening job. I was able to use warm shower facilities and somewhere safe to rest to sleep.

In retrospect, it’s clear to me the enormous leap of faith she undertook as a young woman inviting a guy who was a complete stranger stay in her room. Back then I existed within my male privilege bubble and not even thinking to the potential danger. As a dad now, I am astonished she offered that help – but still incredibly thankful.

I didn’t end up attending the Australian National University, and I never saw her again, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of generosity. It is my wish life has returned her act of kindness abundantly. We could all use more folks with such compassion.