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In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.

We arrived at the student accommodation, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.

Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

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 suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.

I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.

What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?

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