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In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.

Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.

The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.

I worked there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

What's more, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?

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

Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you choose. Your responses are protected, and are solely for the aim of this article.