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During the year 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I assumed to arrange accommodation after getting there, however when I arrived, a major event was taking place and all the youth hostels and cheap hotels were fully booked.

As a visitor from Singapore, I considered perhaps I could just sleep at the terminal – but quickly found the local airport, not like the one back home, does not operate all night. Unsure of how to proceed and growing worried, I hopped on a bus into town and began walking in the direction of the casino, reasoning it was a place to spend the evening somewhere operating all night. Admittedly, this plan at my peak for nailing the admissions interview the next morning, however, being a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.

Our society requires more people who show such kindness.

I must have looked out of place because a female student spotted me loitering in the city center and asked whether I needed help. I recounted my predicament and immediately she said I could crash on the ground of her dormitory at the Australian National University – a perfect solution, given that my my interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided some food: one of the stuffed baguettes she brought back her part-time job. I had access to the bathroom and somewhere safe and secure to spend the night.

Looking back, it’s clear to me what a big chance she undertook as a woman inviting a guy she’d just met crash at her place. Back then I existed within my own unawareness and not even thinking to such safety concerns. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she offered that help – but still deeply appreciative.

Ultimately, I did not study at ANU, and I didn’t meet her again, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of kindness. It is my wish life has repaid her good deed abundantly. The world needs more folks like that woman.