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During 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. I assumed to book accommodation after getting there, yet upon reaching the city, a large conference was happening and all the backpackers hostels and budget accommodation were fully booked.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I considered maybe I could just sleep at the airport – but quickly found that airport, not like the one back home, does not operate all night. Unsure of what my next move should be and growing worried, I caught a city-bound bus and began walking near a gaming venue, reasoning it was a place to spend the night in a place operating 24/7. That wouldn’t put me at my peak for nailing a crucial interview the next day, but as a cash-strapped student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

Our society requires more people with such compassion.

Apparently, I appeared confused since a young woman saw me wandering around downtown and asked if I was OK. I shared the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she offered I could sleep on the floor at her university residence at ANU – which was perfect, as that’s where my medical school interview was the following day. She went further by offering me some free dinner: one filled rolls she had taken home her evening job. This gave me warm shower facilities and somewhere safe and secure to sleep.

Looking back, it’s clear to me the significant risk she accepted as a young woman letting a male stranger she had only just encountered sleep on her floor. In those days I existed within my own unawareness and was oblivious to the potential danger. As a dad now, I am astonished she took that chance – but still very grateful.

I never did study at the Australian National University, 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 repaid her generosity abundantly. Our society requires more folks like that woman.