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During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Because my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a 14-day stopover there en route to London.

We reached the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.

Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.

A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering 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. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.

I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.

Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?

Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know random meetings that have stuck with you.

We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. Your responses are protected, and will only be used the aim of this article.