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In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there en route to London.

We reached the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.

Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.

The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq 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 gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

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

I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.

We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?

From cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.

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