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During the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.

We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.

Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.

A day later I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.

I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.

Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?

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