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During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there en route to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

In typical New York fashion – a place where everything seems achievable – 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. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.

I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.

Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.

What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?

From making your day to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.

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