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In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.

We reached the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.

Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I explained 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 university – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.

The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.

I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.

I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.

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