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In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.

We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.

The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.

I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.

I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

What's more, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters 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. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.