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Back in 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. My plan was to arrange a place to stay after getting there, however upon reaching the city, a large conference was in town and all the backpackers hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.

As a visitor from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of spend the night at the terminal – but soon learned Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, closes around the clock. With no idea quite what to do and growing worried, I caught public transport and found myself drifting near the casino, believing it was a place to spend the night somewhere operating through the night. This was not ideal at my peak for acing an interview the next day, but as a broke student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

We could all use more folks with such compassion.

It seems I seemed lost because a young woman noticed me walking aimlessly through the city center and inquired whether I needed help. I explained my predicament and right away she offered I was welcome to sleep on a spare mattress at her university residence at the Australian National University – which was perfect, considering that was where my medical school interview would take place the next morning. She went further by offering some food: a leftover filled rolls she had taken home her evening job. This gave me the bathroom and somewhere safe and secure for the evening.

In retrospect, I now understand what a big chance she undertook as a woman allowing a guy she had only just encountered stay in her room. Back then I was in my own unawareness and not even thinking to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she offered that help – yet very grateful.

I never did study at ANU, and I lost touch with her again, but I’ve never forgotten that incredible gesture of human compassion. It is my wish the universe has rewarded her act of kindness tenfold. The world needs more folks like that woman.