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During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.

The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, 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.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.

I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.

Critically, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.

What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?

Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.

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