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During 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. My plan was to book lodging when I arrived, but upon reaching the city, a large conference was in town and all the budget hostels and cheap hotels were fully booked.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I considered maybe I could bed down in the airport – but soon learned the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate 24 hours. With no idea quite what to do and growing worried, I caught a bus into town and started wandering near the casino, believing I might spend the evening somewhere that was open 24/7. This was not ideal in the best shape for nailing the admissions interview the next morning, but as a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.

Our society requires more folks who show such kindness.

I must have looked lost because a female student saw me walking aimlessly through the city center and wondered if everything was alright. I recounted the story of my accommodation crisis and right away she offered I was welcome to sleep on the floor of her dormitory at ANU – a perfect solution, as that’s where the important interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided some food: a leftover stuffed baguettes she had taken home her work shift. I was able to use the bathroom and a protected spot and secure to spend the night.

In retrospect, I can appreciate the significant risk she took being a woman inviting a guy she’d just met sleep on her floor. Back then I operated under my own unawareness and not even thinking to such safety concerns. As a dad now, it astounds me she took that chance – but still deeply appreciative.

I never did go to ANU, and I never saw the student afterwards, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of generosity. My sincere desire is that life has repaid her act of kindness abundantly. The world needs more individuals like that woman.