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During the year 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I figured I would book a place to stay when I arrived, but once I got there, a large conference was in town and every single backpackers hostels and budget accommodation were fully booked.

Hailing from Singapore, I thought perhaps I could bed down in the terminal – only to discover the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, is not open 24 hours. Not knowing quite what to do and growing worried, I boarded a city-bound bus and found myself drifting near the casino, thinking I could pass the evening in an establishment that stayed open all night. That wouldn’t put me at my peak for acing an interview the following day, yet, as a student on a tight budget, I couldn’t afford.

Our society requires more individuals who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared confused since a female student spotted me loitering in the city center and asked whether I needed help. I explained my situation and without hesitation she offered I was welcome to sleep on the ground at her university residence at the local university – an ideal turn of events, given that my my interview was scheduled for the next day. She went further by offering me some free dinner: one sandwiches she had from her work shift. I had access to warm shower facilities and a secure location and secure to sleep.

In retrospect, I can appreciate the enormous leap of faith she undertook as a woman allowing a guy who was a complete stranger stay in her room. In those days I operated under my own unawareness and not even thinking about things like that. As a dad now, it astounds me she did that – yet deeply appreciative.

I didn’t end up go to that university, and I didn’t meet her again, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of generosity. I hope karma has repaid her act of kindness abundantly. We could all use more individuals who show such kindness.