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Back in the year 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. I figured to arrange accommodation after getting there, however when I arrived, a big convention was taking place and every single youth hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.

Coming from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of spend the night at the terminal – but quickly found the local airport, unlike Singapore’s, closes all night. Not knowing what my next move should be and getting a bit desperate, I hopped on a bus into town and began walking towards the casino, believing it was a place to spend the night in a place that stayed open all night. That wouldn’t put me in the best shape for nailing a crucial interview the next day, yet, as a student on a tight budget, luxury accommodation was impossible.

The world needs more people like that woman.

It seems I seemed out of place as a female student spotted me wandering around downtown and asked whether I needed help. I shared the story of my accommodation crisis and without hesitation she offered I could sleep on the floor in her student dorm at ANU – an ideal turn of events, given that my my medical school interview would take place the next morning. She went further by offering some food: a leftover stuffed baguettes she had from her evening job. This gave me the bathroom and somewhere safe to rest for the evening.

With hindsight, I can appreciate what a big chance she undertook as a young woman letting a guy she’d just met stay in her room. At that time I operated under my own unawareness and was oblivious to such safety concerns. As a dad now, I’m amazed she offered that help – but still very grateful.

I never did attending ANU, and I lost touch with her again, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of human compassion. My sincere desire is that the universe has repaid her act of kindness abundantly. We could all use more individuals who show such kindness.