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During 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I figured to book a place to stay upon arrival, but once I got there, a large conference was in town and every single budget hostels and cheap hotels had no vacancies.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind maybe I could just sleep at the airport – but quickly found Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, closes 24 hours. Unsure of how to proceed and growing worried, I caught a city-bound bus and found myself drifting in the direction of a gaming venue, believing I might spend those hours in a place that stayed open through the night. That wouldn’t put me at my peak to succeed at an interview the next morning, but as a cash-strapped student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

The world needs more folks with such compassion.

It seems I seemed confused as a young woman spotted me walking aimlessly through the city and wondered whether I needed help. I recounted my situation and without hesitation she offered I was welcome to sleep on a spare mattress of her dormitory at the local university – an ideal turn of events, given that my my medical school interview was the following day. She went further by offering me some free dinner: one filled rolls she brought back her evening job. I was able to use the bathroom and a secure location and safe to spend the night.

In retrospect, it’s clear to me the enormous leap of faith she undertook being a woman allowing a male stranger who was a complete stranger stay in her room. Back then I was in my own unawareness and not even thinking to such safety concerns. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she took that chance – yet deeply appreciative.

Ultimately, I did not study at ANU, and I never saw the student afterwards, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of human compassion. I hope the universe has repaid her act of kindness many times over. The world needs more people with such compassion.