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Back in 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. My plan was to arrange lodging upon arrival, yet once I got there, a large conference was in town and every single youth hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.

Hailing from Singapore, I considered maybe I could spend the night at the terminal – but soon learned the local airport, unlike Singapore’s, is not open all night. Unsure of what my next move should be and growing worried, I caught public transport and started wandering near a gaming venue, thinking it was a place to spend those hours somewhere that stayed open 24/7. That wouldn’t put me in the best shape to succeed at a crucial interview the following day, however, being a student on a tight budget, I couldn’t afford.

Our society requires more folks with such compassion.

I must have looked confused as a female student spotted me walking aimlessly through downtown and asked if everything was alright. I shared the story of my accommodation crisis and right away she suggested I could sleep on the floor of her dormitory at ANU – a perfect solution, as that’s where the important interview was scheduled for the next day. She went further by offering a meal: one sandwiches she had taken home her part-time job. I had access to a hot shower and a protected spot and secure for the evening.

Looking back, it’s clear to me the enormous leap of faith she accepted as a woman allowing a guy who was a complete stranger stay in her room. Back then I was in a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious about things like that. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she took that chance – and remain very grateful.

I didn’t end up study at the Australian National University, and I lost touch with her again, but I’ve never forgotten that incredible gesture of kindness. I hope the universe has returned her generosity tenfold. Our society requires more people like that woman.