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During the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.

We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with people eating there.

Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq approached 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 taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received 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 can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.

Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

Whether it's 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 of legal age, anonymously if you choose. Your responses are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.