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In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.

We got to the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.

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

He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.

The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.

I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?

Whether it's cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.

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