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During 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed to book a place to stay after getting there, yet once I got there, a big convention was happening and every single backpackers hostels and cheap hotels had no vacancies.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of spend the night at the airport – only to discover Canberra airport, not like the one back home, is not open 24 hours. With no idea how to proceed and growing worried, I caught a city-bound bus and found myself drifting near the casino, reasoning I could pass the evening somewhere that stayed open 24/7. This was not ideal in the best shape for acing the admissions interview the following day, however, being a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

The world needs more people like that woman.

It seems I seemed out of place because a female student noticed me walking aimlessly through the city and asked whether I needed help. I explained my situation and right away she offered I was welcome to sleep on the floor of her dormitory at ANU – an ideal turn of events, given that my my interview would take place the next morning. She even offered a meal: one stuffed baguettes she had from her work shift. This gave me warm shower facilities and somewhere safe and secure for the evening.

With hindsight, I now understand what a big chance she took as a young woman allowing a male stranger who was a complete stranger stay in her room. In those days I operated under a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious about things like that. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she did that – and remain incredibly thankful.

I didn’t end up study at ANU, and I lost touch with the student afterwards, but her act remains etched in my mind her amazing act of kindness. It is my wish karma has returned her generosity tenfold. We could all use more individuals like that woman.