🔗 Share this article

Back in 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. My plan was to book lodging when I arrived, however upon reaching the city, a major event was happening and every single budget hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.

As a visitor from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind maybe I could spend the night at the terminal – but soon learned the local airport, unlike Singapore’s, is not open 24 hours. With no idea how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on a city-bound bus and began walking in the direction of the casino, thinking I might spend the evening somewhere that was open through the night. This was not ideal in the best shape for acing an interview the next morning, yet, as a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

Our society requires more folks like that woman.

Apparently, I appeared confused because a female student saw me loitering in downtown and wondered whether I needed help. I shared my situation and right away she said I could crash on the floor at her university residence at ANU – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where my medical school interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided a meal: one of the stuffed baguettes she brought back her evening job. I had access to warm shower facilities and somewhere safe to rest to spend the night.

In retrospect, I now understand the significant risk she took being a woman allowing a guy who was a complete stranger stay in her room. At that time I was in a bubble of male privilege and not even thinking to such safety concerns. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she did that – yet very grateful.

Ultimately, I did not go to the Australian National University, and I didn’t meet the student afterwards, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of generosity. I hope karma has rewarded her good deed many times over. Our society requires more folks with such compassion.