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During the year 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. I figured to arrange lodging when I arrived, but when I arrived, a major event was happening and all the backpackers hostels and cheap hotels were completely sold out.

Hailing from Singapore, I considered the possibility of bed down in the airport – but quickly found Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, closes around the clock. With no idea quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on a bus into town and started wandering in the direction of the casino, thinking I could pass the night somewhere that was open 24/7. Admittedly, this plan in the ideal condition to succeed at an interview the following day, however, being a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more individuals with such compassion.

Apparently, I appeared out of place because a young woman spotted me walking aimlessly through downtown and inquired if I was OK. I explained my predicament and right away she suggested I could crash on a spare mattress of her dormitory at the Australian National University – a perfect solution, as that’s where my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. She went further by offering a meal: a leftover filled rolls she had from her work shift. I was able to use the bathroom and a protected spot and secure to spend the night.

In retrospect, I can appreciate the significant risk she accepted being a woman inviting a guy she had only just encountered stay in her room. At that time I existed within a bubble of male privilege and not even thinking about things like that. Now, as a father, I am astonished she offered that help – yet deeply appreciative.

I never did go to that university, and I never saw her again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of generosity. It is my wish life has repaid her act of kindness many times over. The world needs more folks like that woman.