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During the year 2006, I made a trip to Canberra for a medical school interview. I assumed to arrange accommodation after getting there, yet when I arrived, a big convention was happening and every single backpackers hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I thought the possibility of bed down in the airport – but soon learned that airport, unlike Singapore’s, does not operate all night. With no idea how to proceed and growing worried, I boarded a bus into town and found myself drifting in the direction of a gaming venue, reasoning I might spend the evening in a place that was open through the night. Admittedly, this plan in the best shape to succeed at a crucial interview the following day, yet, as a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

We could all use more individuals like that woman.

Apparently, I appeared confused as a female student noticed me walking aimlessly through downtown and asked whether I needed help. I explained my situation and immediately she offered I could sleep on a spare mattress of her dormitory at the Australian National University – which was perfect, as that’s where my interview was the following day. She even offered a meal: one of the stuffed baguettes she had taken home her work shift. This gave me warm shower facilities and a protected spot and secure to sleep.

With hindsight, I now understand the enormous leap of faith she took as a young woman allowing a guy she had only just encountered stay in her room. Back then I existed within my own unawareness and did not consider about things like that. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she did that – and remain incredibly thankful.

Ultimately, I did not go to that university, and I lost touch with her again, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of generosity. I hope life has rewarded her act of kindness tenfold. We could all use more people like that woman.