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In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.

We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.

The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.

What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?

From brightening your mood to altering your path, we would love to know random meetings that have stuck with you.

Please share your story if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are confidential, and will only be used the aim of this article.