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During 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I assumed I would book a place to stay when I arrived, however upon reaching the city, a big convention was happening and every single youth hostels and budget accommodation were completely sold out.

Hailing from Singapore, I thought maybe I could bed down in the terminal – only to discover that airport, not like the one back home, closes around the clock. With no idea quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I caught public transport and started wandering towards a gaming venue, believing I could pass those hours somewhere operating 24/7. Admittedly, this plan in the best shape for nailing a crucial interview the following day, however, being a broke student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

Our society requires more people with such compassion.

Apparently, I appeared confused since a young woman noticed me loitering in downtown and asked if everything was alright. I explained the story of my accommodation crisis and right away she offered I was welcome to sleep on the ground in her student dorm at the Australian National University – a perfect solution, given that my my interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided some food: one sandwiches she had taken home her part-time job. This gave me the bathroom and a protected spot to rest to spend the night.

Looking back, I now understand what a big chance she undertook being a woman allowing a male stranger who was a complete stranger stay in her room. Back then I operated under my own unawareness and was oblivious to such safety concerns. Now, as a father, it astounds me she did that – yet very grateful.

I never did go to that university, and I lost touch with the student afterwards, but her act remains etched in my mind her selfless deed of kindness. I hope life has returned her generosity many times over. We could all use more people with such compassion.