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Back in the year 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed to book a place to stay upon arrival, but when I arrived, a big convention was in town and all the budget hostels and affordable lodging had no vacancies.

Hailing from Singapore, I considered maybe I could spend the night at the airport – only to discover the local airport, unlike Singapore’s, does not operate 24 hours. With no idea quite what to do and growing worried, I boarded a city-bound bus and found myself drifting near a gaming venue, believing I might spend the evening in a place operating through the night. This was not ideal in the best shape to succeed at an interview the following day, yet, as a cash-strapped student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

The world needs more people like that woman.

Apparently, I appeared lost because a female student saw me wandering around the city and wondered if everything was alright. I shared the story of my accommodation crisis and right away she suggested I was welcome to sleep on the floor of her dormitory at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where my interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided some food: one stuffed baguettes she brought back her work shift. I had access to warm shower facilities and a protected spot to rest to sleep.

Looking back, it’s clear to me the significant risk she undertook as a young woman inviting a man she’d just met crash at her place. Back then I existed within a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she took that chance – and remain deeply appreciative.

I didn’t end up attending ANU, and I didn’t meet the student afterwards, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of kindness. My sincere desire is that the universe has rewarded her act of kindness many times over. The world needs more people like that woman.