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Back in 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. My plan was I would book lodging after getting there, yet once I got there, a big convention was happening and all the budget hostels and cheap hotels were completely sold out.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I considered perhaps I could bed down in the terminal – but soon learned Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate 24 hours. Not knowing how to proceed and growing worried, I caught a city-bound bus and began walking in the direction of a gaming venue, thinking I might spend the night somewhere operating through the night. That wouldn’t put me in the best shape to succeed at an interview the following day, however, being a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

Our society requires more people who show such kindness.

I must have looked lost because a young woman spotted me wandering around downtown and asked if everything was alright. I shared my situation and right away she said I was welcome to sleep on the ground of her dormitory at the local university – which was perfect, given that my my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided some food: one of the filled rolls she brought back her work shift. I had access to the bathroom and a protected spot and secure to spend the night.

With hindsight, I now understand what a big chance she accepted as a young woman allowing a man she had only just encountered crash at her place. Back then I existed within my male privilege bubble and not even thinking to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she did that – and remain deeply appreciative.

Ultimately, I did not study at that university, and I never saw that kind stranger again, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of kindness. My sincere desire is that karma has rewarded her act of kindness tenfold. Our society requires more folks with such compassion.