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Back in 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. My plan was I would book lodging when I arrived, yet when I arrived, a major event was happening and every single youth hostels and cheap hotels were completely sold out.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I thought the possibility of just sleep at the airport – but soon learned that airport, not like the one back home, does not operate 24 hours. Unsure of quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I boarded a city-bound bus and found myself drifting near the casino, reasoning I might spend the evening somewhere operating through the night. Admittedly, this plan in the best shape to succeed at a crucial interview the following day, but as a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

Our society requires more folks like that woman.

I must have looked out of place since a female student noticed me walking aimlessly through the city center and wondered if everything was alright. I shared my situation and right away she offered I was welcome to sleep on the floor at her university residence at the local university – a perfect solution, as that’s where my medical school interview was the following day. She even offered a meal: a leftover filled rolls she had from her evening job. I was able to use the bathroom and a secure location and secure to spend the night.

With hindsight, it’s clear to me the enormous leap of faith she undertook as a young woman inviting a guy she had only just encountered crash at her place. Back then I existed within my own unawareness and not even thinking about things like that. As a dad now, I’m amazed she took that chance – but still deeply appreciative.

I didn’t end up study at ANU, and I never saw her again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of generosity. It is my wish karma has repaid her act of kindness abundantly. The world needs more people who show such kindness.