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During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.

In typical New York fashion – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.

I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?

From making your day to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, anonymously if you wish. What you share are protected, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.