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During the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there en route to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close 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 chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.

I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.

I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.

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

Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.

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