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Back in the year 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed to book lodging upon arrival, however upon reaching the city, a big convention was happening and every single budget hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I considered perhaps I could bed down in the terminal – only to discover the local airport, unlike Singapore’s, closes 24 hours. Not knowing how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I boarded a city-bound bus and began walking near a gaming venue, believing it was a place to spend the evening in a place operating through the night. This was not ideal in the ideal condition for acing an interview the next day, but as a broke student, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more people like that woman.

It seems I seemed out of place since a woman noticed me walking aimlessly through the city and asked whether I needed help. I explained my predicament and right away she suggested I could crash on the floor of her dormitory at ANU – which was perfect, as that’s where the important interview would take place the next morning. Generously, she also provided a meal: one of the sandwiches she had taken home her evening job. I had access to the bathroom and somewhere safe and safe for the evening.

In retrospect, it’s clear to me what a big chance she took as a young woman inviting a guy she’d just met stay in her room. In those days I was in a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to such safety concerns. Now, as a father, I’m amazed she offered that help – and remain incredibly thankful.

I didn’t end up go to ANU, and I lost touch with her again, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of kindness. I hope karma has repaid her generosity abundantly. The world needs more people like that woman.