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Back in the year 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. My plan was to book lodging when I arrived, yet once I got there, a large conference was in town and all the youth hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I considered perhaps I could bed down in the terminal – but soon learned that airport, not like the one back home, does not operate all night. Not knowing what my next move should be and feeling increasingly desperate, I boarded a city-bound bus and began walking near a gaming venue, believing I might spend the night in an establishment operating through the night. Admittedly, this plan in the best shape for nailing an interview the next morning, yet, as a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

We could all use more folks who show such kindness.

I must have looked confused since a female student saw me wandering around the city and asked whether I needed help. I shared my situation and without hesitation she offered I could crash on a spare mattress at her university residence at the local university – a perfect solution, considering that was where the important interview was the following day. She even offered me some free dinner: one of the stuffed baguettes she had from her evening job. I had access to a hot shower and somewhere safe to rest to sleep.

In retrospect, I now understand what a big chance she accepted as a woman inviting a guy who was a complete stranger stay in her room. In those days I was in a bubble of male privilege and not even thinking about things like that. As a dad now, I am astonished she took that chance – yet very grateful.

I never did study at the Australian National University, and I never saw that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me her selfless deed of kindness. It is my wish the universe has rewarded her act of kindness abundantly. The world needs more folks like that woman.