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During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.

Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.

He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.

A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the courage or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.

What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?

Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about random meetings that have stuck with you.

We invite you to tell us if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are confidential, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.