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Back in 2006, I made a trip to Canberra for a medical school interview. My plan was to arrange accommodation upon arrival, however when I arrived, a large conference was taking place and all the youth hostels and cheap hotels were fully booked.

Hailing from Singapore, I thought the possibility of just sleep at the airport – but quickly found Canberra airport, not like the one back home, is not open all night. With no idea quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I boarded a bus into town and began walking towards the casino, believing I could pass the evening somewhere that was open through the night. That wouldn’t put me in the ideal condition for nailing the admissions interview the following day, but as a broke student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

The world needs more folks who show such kindness.

It seems I seemed confused since a woman saw me wandering around the city and inquired if I was OK. I explained my predicament and immediately she said I could sleep on a spare mattress of her dormitory at the Australian National University – which was perfect, as that’s where my medical school interview would take place the next morning. Generously, she also provided a meal: a leftover filled rolls she brought back her work shift. I was able to use warm shower facilities and a protected spot and secure to sleep.

With hindsight, I now understand the significant risk she accepted being a woman allowing a guy she had only just encountered stay in her room. At that time I operated under a bubble of male privilege and did not consider about things like that. Now, as a father, it astounds me she offered that help – and remain deeply appreciative.

I never did go to the Australian National University, and I didn’t meet the student afterwards, but I’ve never forgotten her selfless deed of generosity. I hope life has repaid her act of kindness tenfold. We could all use more folks like that woman.