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Back in the year 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. My plan was to arrange lodging upon arrival, however when I arrived, a big convention was happening and every single budget hostels and budget accommodation were fully booked.

Hailing from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind perhaps I could bed down in the airport – only to discover the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, is not open around the clock. Unsure of quite what to do and growing worried, I caught a city-bound bus and started wandering in the direction of a gaming venue, believing I could pass those hours in an establishment that stayed open all night. This was not ideal in the ideal condition for nailing the admissions interview the next morning, yet, as a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

The world needs more folks with such compassion.

It seems I seemed lost as a young woman spotted me walking aimlessly through downtown and wondered whether I needed help. I explained my predicament and right away she offered I could crash on the floor of her dormitory at ANU – which was perfect, given that my my interview would take place the next morning. Generously, she also provided a meal: a leftover filled rolls she had taken home her work shift. This gave me a hot shower and a protected spot and secure to sleep.

Looking back, it’s clear to me what a big chance she took being a woman inviting a man she’d just met sleep on her floor. At that time I operated under a bubble of male privilege and not even thinking about things like that. As a dad now, I am astonished she took that chance – but still very grateful.

I never did study at that university, and I never saw the student afterwards, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of generosity. I hope the universe has repaid her good deed many times over. We could all use more people with such compassion.