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In the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Since my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.

The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.

I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.

Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?

From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. Your responses are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.