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During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.

A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student walked over to 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 gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away informed my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.

In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.

I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish 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 changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.

What's more, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?

Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.