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During 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. My plan was I would book accommodation after getting there, but once I got there, a big convention was in town and all the backpackers hostels and affordable lodging were fully booked.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I considered the possibility of bed down in the terminal – but quickly found Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, closes 24 hours. With no idea what my next move should be and getting a bit desperate, I hopped on a bus into town and began walking in the direction of a gaming venue, thinking I might spend those hours somewhere that was open all night. This was not ideal in the best shape for acing a crucial interview the following day, but as a student on a tight budget, luxury accommodation was impossible.

Our society requires more individuals with such compassion.

I must have looked confused because a young woman noticed me walking aimlessly through downtown and wondered if everything was alright. I explained the story of my accommodation crisis and without hesitation she offered I could sleep on the floor in her student dorm at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, given that my my interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided a meal: one of the filled rolls she had from her part-time job. This gave me warm shower facilities and somewhere safe and safe to spend the night.

Looking back, I can appreciate what a big chance she undertook as a woman inviting a guy who was a complete stranger sleep on her floor. In those days I was in my male privilege bubble and not even thinking to such safety concerns. Now, as a father, I am astonished she took that chance – yet deeply appreciative.

Ultimately, I did not go to that university, and I didn’t meet the student afterwards, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of human compassion. It is my wish the universe has returned her generosity many times over. The world needs more people who show such kindness.