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During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's 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 fellow residents.

Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.

He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.

I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.

Critically, that role at the university resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

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

From 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 wish. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.