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In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.

Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.

He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.

The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

In typical New York fashion – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. 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 was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.

I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.

What's more, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.

Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?

Whether it's brightening your mood to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, anonymously if you choose. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.