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Back in the year 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I figured I would book a place to stay upon arrival, but when I arrived, a big convention was in town and all the backpackers hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.

As a visitor from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind maybe I could spend the night at the airport – only to discover the local airport, not like the one back home, does not operate all night. With no idea what my next move should be and feeling increasingly desperate, I boarded a bus into town and began walking near the casino, reasoning I might spend the evening somewhere operating through the night. Admittedly, this plan at my peak for nailing the admissions interview the next day, however, being a broke student, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more people who show such kindness.

I must have looked lost because a female student spotted me walking aimlessly through the city and inquired if I was OK. I explained my predicament and immediately she suggested I could crash on the ground in her student dorm at the Australian National University – a perfect solution, given that my my medical school interview was the following day. She went further by offering a meal: a leftover filled rolls she had taken home her work shift. This gave me the bathroom and somewhere safe and safe for the evening.

In retrospect, I now understand the significant risk she accepted as a young woman allowing a man who was a complete stranger crash at her place. Back then I was in my male privilege bubble and was oblivious to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she took that chance – yet deeply appreciative.

Ultimately, I did not study at the Australian National University, and I never saw that kind stranger again, but her act remains etched in my mind her selfless deed of generosity. My sincere desire is that life has returned her good deed many times over. Our society requires more folks who show such kindness.