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In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.

We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.

I was employed there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.

Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.