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Back in 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. My plan was to book lodging upon arrival, yet upon reaching the city, a major event was taking place and every single budget hostels and affordable lodging had no vacancies.

Hailing from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind maybe I could spend the night at the airport – but quickly found Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, closes all night. With no idea how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on a bus into town and began walking near a gaming venue, reasoning I might spend the evening in a place that stayed open through the night. Admittedly, this plan in the best shape for nailing the admissions interview the next day, but as a student on a tight budget, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more folks with such compassion.

It seems I seemed out of place as a female student noticed me wandering around the city center and asked if I was OK. I explained my predicament and immediately she offered I could crash on the floor in her student dorm at ANU – a perfect solution, as that’s where the important interview was scheduled for the next day. She went further by offering some food: one of the sandwiches she had from her evening job. I was able to use a hot shower and a protected spot and secure to sleep.

In retrospect, I can appreciate what a big chance she took being a woman allowing a man she had only just encountered crash at her place. Back then I operated under my male privilege bubble and was oblivious about things like that. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she did that – but still deeply appreciative.

Ultimately, I did not go to the Australian National University, and I never saw her again, but I’ve never forgotten her selfless deed of human compassion. My sincere desire is that karma has repaid her generosity tenfold. The world needs more folks like that woman.