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During the year 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I assumed to book a place to stay upon arrival, yet upon reaching the city, a major event was happening and every single budget hostels and budget accommodation were completely sold out.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of just sleep at the airport – only to discover the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, is not open 24 hours. Unsure of what my next move should be and growing worried, I hopped on a city-bound bus and began walking towards the casino, thinking I could pass the night somewhere that was open all night. That wouldn’t put me in the ideal condition for nailing the admissions interview the following day, yet, as a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more people with such compassion.

I must have looked confused because a young woman noticed me loitering in the city center and wondered if I was OK. I shared my situation and without hesitation she said I could sleep on the ground at her university residence at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where my medical school interview would take place the next morning. She even offered some food: one of the filled rolls she had taken home her evening job. This gave me the bathroom and somewhere safe and safe to sleep.

Looking back, I can appreciate the significant risk she undertook being a woman allowing a man she had only just encountered sleep on her floor. At that time I existed within my own unawareness and not even thinking to such safety concerns. As a dad now, it astounds me she offered that help – but still incredibly thankful.

Ultimately, I did not study at ANU, and I lost touch with the student afterwards, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of generosity. I hope karma has returned her act of kindness abundantly. We could all use more individuals with such compassion.