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During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had arranged an interview 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 explained to my prospective employer 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. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.

What's more, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

From making your day to transforming your future, we want to hear about random meetings that have left a lasting impression.

We invite you to tell us if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you wish. The stories you tell are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.