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During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.

We got to the student accommodation, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.

Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.

A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.

I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.

I lost touch with him and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

What's more, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual 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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