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Back in 2006, I traveled to Canberra for a medical school interview. I figured to arrange accommodation upon arrival, but once I got there, a major event was taking place and every single youth hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I thought maybe I could spend the night at the airport – but soon learned Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, is not open 24 hours. Unsure of what my next move should be and growing worried, I hopped on public transport and started wandering near a gaming venue, reasoning I might spend the evening in a place that was open through the night. Admittedly, this plan at my peak for nailing a crucial interview the next day, however, being a broke student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

Our society requires more individuals who show such kindness.

I must have looked lost since a young woman saw me walking aimlessly through the city center and inquired if I was OK. I recounted my predicament and immediately she said I was welcome to sleep on the ground at her university residence at the local university – a perfect solution, as that’s where my interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided me some free dinner: a leftover filled rolls she had from her evening job. This gave me warm shower facilities and a protected spot to rest to sleep.

In retrospect, it’s clear to me the enormous leap of faith she took being a woman letting a male stranger who was a complete stranger sleep on her floor. At that time I existed within my own unawareness and was oblivious to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she took that chance – yet incredibly thankful.

Ultimately, I did not go to the Australian National University, and I didn’t meet the student afterwards, yet her memory has stayed with me her selfless deed of kindness. I hope karma has repaid her act of kindness abundantly. Our society requires more people who show such kindness.