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During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Since my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.

We got to the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.

Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an research lab at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.

I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?

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