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During the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.

I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means 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 am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?

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