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During the year 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I figured to arrange accommodation when I arrived, yet when I arrived, a large conference was happening and every single youth hostels and budget accommodation were fully booked.

Hailing from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind perhaps I could spend the night at the airport – but quickly found Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, is not open around the clock. Not knowing what my next move should be and growing worried, I hopped on public transport and started wandering towards the casino, thinking I might spend the evening in a place that was open through the night. This was not ideal in the ideal condition to succeed at a crucial interview the following day, however, being a cash-strapped student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

Our society requires more individuals like that woman.

I must have looked lost since a young woman spotted me wandering around downtown and inquired if everything was alright. I shared my situation and right away she offered I was welcome to sleep on the floor of her dormitory at ANU – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where the important interview would take place the next morning. Generously, she also provided some food: one sandwiches she had taken home her part-time job. I had access to warm shower facilities and a protected spot and safe to spend the night.

Looking back, I can appreciate the enormous leap of faith she undertook as a young woman letting a man she had only just encountered stay in her room. At that time I existed within my male privilege bubble and not even thinking to such safety concerns. Now, as a father, it astounds me she offered that help – yet very grateful.

I never did go to that university, and I lost touch with her again, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of generosity. My sincere desire is that life has repaid her generosity many times over. We could all use more individuals with such compassion.