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During the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.

We got to the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and began chatting with fellow residents.

Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.

The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

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

I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.

What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.

What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?

Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the aim of this article.