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During 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I assumed I would book accommodation after getting there, yet once I got there, a big convention was taking place and all the backpackers hostels and budget accommodation were completely sold out.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I considered maybe I could bed down in the terminal – only to discover the local airport, unlike Singapore’s, closes around the clock. Not knowing what my next move should be and getting a bit desperate, I caught public transport and began walking towards a gaming venue, thinking I might spend the evening in an establishment that was open all night. This was not ideal at my peak for acing the admissions interview the next morning, however, being a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

We could all use more individuals who show such kindness.

I must have looked out of place because a woman noticed me wandering around the city and inquired whether I needed help. I shared my predicament and right away she offered I could crash on a spare mattress in her student dorm at the local university – which was perfect, given that my the important interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided some food: one sandwiches she had from her evening job. I had access to warm shower facilities and somewhere safe and safe to sleep.

In retrospect, I can appreciate the significant risk she undertook as a woman letting a guy she’d just met stay in her room. Back then I operated under my male privilege bubble and did not consider to the potential danger. As a dad now, I’m amazed she offered that help – yet deeply appreciative.

I didn’t end up attending that university, and I lost touch with her again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of generosity. I hope life has returned her act of kindness many times over. We could all use more people who show such kindness.