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In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a 14-day stopover there en route to London.

We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.

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

He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

In typical New York fashion – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.

Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.

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