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During 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. My plan was to book accommodation when I arrived, yet upon reaching the city, a major event was taking place and all the youth hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I thought the possibility of spend the night at the airport – but soon learned that airport, unlike Singapore’s, closes around the clock. Not knowing how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I boarded a bus into town and started wandering towards a gaming venue, thinking I could pass the evening in a place operating all night. This was not ideal at my peak for nailing a crucial interview the following day, yet, as a broke student, I couldn’t afford.

We could all use more individuals who show such kindness.

It seems I seemed confused as a female student noticed me wandering around downtown and wondered if everything was alright. I explained the story of my accommodation crisis and right away she said I could crash on a spare mattress of her dormitory at the Australian National University – a perfect solution, considering that was where my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided some food: one stuffed baguettes she had from her work shift. I was able to use the bathroom and a secure location and safe to sleep.

In retrospect, I can appreciate what a big chance she accepted as a woman letting a guy she’d just met sleep on her floor. Back then I operated under my male privilege bubble and did not consider to such safety concerns. Now, as a father, I am astonished she did that – yet deeply appreciative.

Ultimately, I did not attending that university, and I lost touch with the student afterwards, but I’ve never forgotten her selfless deed of human compassion. My sincere desire is that karma has rewarded her act of kindness many times over. Our society requires more people with such compassion.