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During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.

We got to the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. 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 Stranger Has Once Performed for You?

From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, anonymously if you wish. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.