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During the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.

Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.

The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.

In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” 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 complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.

Critically, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

Tell us about the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?

Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.

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