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In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We got to the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I would never have had the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Moreover, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.

Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?

From cheering you up to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you wish. Your responses are secure, and are intended for the aim of this article.