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In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.

He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.

The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview 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 straight off told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.

In typical New York fashion – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.

I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?

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