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During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.

We arrived at the student accommodation, a big 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.

The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

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

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

We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Shown for You?

From cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know random meetings that have left a lasting impression.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you prefer. Your responses are protected, and will only be used the aim of this article.