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During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We got to the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with people eating there.

Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.

Critically, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?

From brightening your mood to changing your life, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.

Please share your story if you are of legal age, anonymously if you choose. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.