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In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.

Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.

The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?

From making your day to altering your path, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, anonymously if you choose. Your responses are confidential, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.