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In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.

We got to the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with fellow residents.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.

He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, 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 Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away told my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.

I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.

We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.

What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?

From making your day to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.

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