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Back in 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I figured to book accommodation when I arrived, but when I arrived, a big convention was taking place and every single youth hostels and affordable lodging had no vacancies.

As a visitor from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of bed down in the terminal – but quickly found that airport, not like the one back home, does not operate all night. With no idea quite what to do and growing worried, I caught public transport and found myself drifting near the casino, thinking it was a place to spend the night in an establishment that was open through the night. This was not ideal in the best shape for acing the admissions interview the next morning, however, being a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.

Our society requires more people like that woman.

Apparently, I appeared confused as a female student saw me walking aimlessly through the city and asked if everything was alright. I shared the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she offered I was welcome to sleep on a spare mattress of her dormitory at the local university – which was perfect, as that’s where my medical school interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided some food: one of the sandwiches she brought back her part-time job. This gave me a hot shower and a secure location to rest for the evening.

With hindsight, it’s clear to me the significant risk she undertook as a woman allowing a male stranger who was a complete stranger crash at her place. In those days I operated under my own unawareness and did not consider to such safety concerns. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she did that – and remain very grateful.

Ultimately, I did not go to that university, and I lost touch with that kind stranger again, but I’ve never forgotten her selfless deed of kindness. I hope karma has rewarded her act of kindness tenfold. Our society requires more people like that woman.