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During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.

We got to the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, found a table, 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 inquired what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.

I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.

I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.

What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?

From brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.

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