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During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.

We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.

Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?

From making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.

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