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During the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.

We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

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

I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a graduate degree in global studies.

I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.

What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.

Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?

From cheering you up to altering your path, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.

We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you choose. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.