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During 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed to arrange a place to stay upon arrival, however when I arrived, a large conference was in town and all the budget hostels and cheap hotels had no vacancies.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I considered maybe I could just sleep at the airport – only to discover that airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, is not open around the clock. Unsure of quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on public transport and started wandering near a gaming venue, thinking I might spend those hours somewhere that was open through the night. This was not ideal in the best shape for nailing an interview the following day, yet, as a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more folks with such compassion.

I must have looked lost because a woman spotted me loitering in the city center and inquired if I was OK. I shared my predicament and immediately she said I was welcome to sleep on the ground at her university residence at ANU – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where the important interview was scheduled for the next day. She even offered me some free dinner: one of the filled rolls she brought back her part-time job. This gave me a hot shower and somewhere safe to rest to spend the night.

Looking back, it’s clear to me the significant risk she accepted as a woman inviting a guy who was a complete stranger crash at her place. In those days I operated under my own unawareness and not even thinking to the potential danger. Now, as a father, I am astonished she offered that help – but still very grateful.

I didn’t end up attending that university, and I didn’t meet that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me her selfless deed of human compassion. It is my wish the universe has returned her good deed abundantly. The world needs more individuals like that woman.