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Back in the year 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I figured I would book lodging when I arrived, yet upon reaching the city, a big convention was in town and all the youth hostels and budget accommodation were completely sold out.

Coming from Singapore, I considered the possibility of spend the night at the terminal – but quickly found the local airport, not like the one back home, does not operate 24 hours. With no idea what my next move should be and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on public transport and started wandering in the direction of a gaming venue, thinking I might spend the evening somewhere operating through the night. This was not ideal in the ideal condition for acing a crucial interview the next day, yet, as a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

The world needs more folks like that woman.

I must have looked out of place as a female student saw me loitering in the city center and asked whether I needed help. I recounted my predicament and without hesitation she said I could sleep on the ground at her university residence at the local university – an ideal turn of events, given that my the important interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided some food: one of the sandwiches she brought back her evening job. I was able to use warm shower facilities and a protected spot and secure to sleep.

Looking back, I now understand what a big chance she accepted being a woman letting a man she’d just met crash at her place. Back then I operated under a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to the potential danger. As a dad now, I’m amazed she took that chance – but still incredibly thankful.

I never did study at ANU, and I never saw that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of generosity. I hope karma has repaid her act of kindness tenfold. The world needs more individuals who show such kindness.