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During the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.

We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.

Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him 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, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but right away informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.

I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.

What is the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?

Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, anonymously if you wish. The stories you tell are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.