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During the year 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I figured to arrange a place to stay after getting there, yet when I arrived, a major event was happening and all the backpackers hostels and cheap hotels had no vacancies.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind maybe I could just sleep at the terminal – but quickly found the local airport, unlike Singapore’s, does not operate 24 hours. With no idea what my next move should be and growing worried, I hopped on public transport and began walking towards the casino, thinking I could pass the night somewhere that stayed open 24/7. Admittedly, this plan at my peak for nailing a crucial interview the next day, but as a cash-strapped student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

Our society requires more individuals with such compassion.

Apparently, I appeared lost as a young woman saw me loitering in the city center and inquired if everything was alright. I explained my predicament and right away she offered I could sleep on the ground of her dormitory at the Australian National University – a perfect solution, given that my the important interview was the following day. She went further by offering some food: one sandwiches she brought back her work shift. I had access to warm shower facilities and a secure location to rest to spend the night.

With hindsight, I can appreciate the significant risk she took as a woman letting a guy she had only just encountered crash at her place. Back then I operated under a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to such safety concerns. Today, as a parent, I am astonished she did that – but still very grateful.

I didn’t end up study at the Australian National University, and I never saw her again, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of human compassion. I hope karma has returned her good deed many times over. Our society requires more people who show such kindness.