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In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.

I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.

I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

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