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Back in 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. My plan was to arrange a place to stay after getting there, however once I got there, a large conference was happening and every single youth hostels and cheap hotels had no vacancies.

Coming from Singapore, I thought maybe I could bed down in the airport – but quickly found that airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate 24 hours. Unsure of what my next move should be and growing worried, I caught a city-bound bus and found myself drifting near a gaming venue, thinking it was a place to spend those hours in an establishment that stayed open through the night. This was not ideal in the best shape for acing an interview the next morning, but as a cash-strapped student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

We could all use more individuals with such compassion.

It seems I seemed confused as a young woman saw me wandering around the city center and wondered if everything was alright. I explained the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she said I could sleep on a spare mattress at her university residence at ANU – a perfect solution, given that my the important interview was the following day. She even offered me some free dinner: one of the sandwiches she had taken home her part-time job. This gave me a hot shower and a protected spot and safe for the evening.

Looking back, it’s clear to me what a big chance she accepted as a young woman letting a guy she had only just encountered sleep on her floor. At that time I was in my male privilege bubble and was oblivious about things like that. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she offered that help – and remain deeply appreciative.

I never did go to the Australian National University, and I never saw her again, but I’ve never forgotten that incredible gesture of human compassion. My sincere desire is that karma has returned her generosity tenfold. Our society requires more individuals who show such kindness.