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Back in 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I assumed to arrange accommodation when I arrived, yet upon reaching the city, a big convention was happening and every single youth hostels and cheap hotels had no vacancies.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I considered maybe I could bed down in the terminal – only to discover Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, closes all night. Unsure of quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I caught a city-bound bus and began walking near the casino, believing I could pass those hours in a place that was open all night. Admittedly, this plan at my peak for nailing the admissions interview the next day, but as a broke student, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more people who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared confused because a young woman saw me loitering in the city center and wondered if everything was alright. I explained the story of my accommodation crisis and without hesitation she said I could crash on the floor at her university residence at the local university – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where my interview was scheduled for the next day. She even offered a meal: one stuffed baguettes she brought back her evening job. I had access to a hot shower and somewhere safe and safe to spend the night.

Looking back, it’s clear to me the enormous leap of faith she took as a woman letting a man she had only just encountered sleep on her floor. In those days I existed within my male privilege bubble and was oblivious to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she did that – yet very grateful.

Ultimately, I did not attending ANU, and I never saw that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of generosity. My sincere desire is that life has rewarded her act of kindness many times over. The world needs more people like that woman.