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In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.

We got to the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.

Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.

The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. 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. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.

What's more, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.

What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?

From cheering you up to transforming your future, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are confidential, and will only be used the aim of this article.