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During the year 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I assumed to arrange accommodation when I arrived, yet once I got there, a large conference was in town and every single backpackers hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, I thought perhaps I could bed down in the terminal – but quickly found the local airport, not like the one back home, closes around the clock. Unsure of quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I hopped on public transport and began walking towards a gaming venue, thinking I could pass those hours in an establishment that stayed open through the night. Admittedly, this plan in the ideal condition for acing the admissions interview the next day, yet, as a cash-strapped student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

Our society requires more folks who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared confused since a young woman noticed me loitering in downtown and inquired whether I needed help. I explained my situation and without hesitation she said I could crash on the floor in her student dorm at ANU – a perfect solution, as that’s where my interview would take place the next morning. Generously, she also provided a meal: a leftover sandwiches she brought back her part-time job. I was able to use warm shower facilities and a secure location and secure to spend the night.

In retrospect, I can appreciate the significant risk she took as a woman allowing a male stranger she had only just encountered sleep on her floor. In those days I operated under a bubble of male privilege and not even thinking to such safety concerns. Now, as a father, it astounds me she took that chance – but still deeply appreciative.

I didn’t end up go to the Australian National University, and I didn’t meet the student afterwards, yet her memory has stayed with me her selfless deed of generosity. It is my wish life has repaid her generosity tenfold. Our society requires more folks like that woman.