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Back in 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, yet upon reaching the city, a large conference was in town and all the backpackers hostels and cheap hotels were completely sold out.

Hailing from Singapore, I considered maybe I could bed down in the terminal – only to discover that airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate around the clock. With no idea how to proceed and getting a bit desperate, I caught a city-bound bus and found myself drifting towards the casino, reasoning I might spend the night somewhere that stayed open all night. That wouldn’t put me at my peak for nailing a crucial interview the next morning, but as a broke student, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more individuals like that woman.

Apparently, I appeared out of place because a female student spotted me wandering around the city center and asked whether I needed help. I explained my predicament and without hesitation she said I could crash on a spare mattress at her university residence at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided a meal: one filled rolls she had from her part-time job. I had access to a hot shower and a protected spot to rest to sleep.

In retrospect, I now understand the significant risk she undertook as a young woman inviting a guy she had only just encountered crash at her place. In those days I was in a bubble of male privilege and not even thinking to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, I am astonished she offered that help – and remain very grateful.

I never did go to ANU, and I never saw her again, but I’ve never forgotten that incredible gesture of generosity. I hope the universe has rewarded her generosity abundantly. We could all use more individuals with such compassion.