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During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.

Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

In typical New York fashion – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.

I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.

What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?

Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.