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During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.

We got to the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.

Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.

I worked there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.

What's more, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?

Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.

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