🔗 Share this article

During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.

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

I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

Whether it's cheering you up 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 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are protected, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.