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During the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my friend was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.

We reached the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek 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 man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.

I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.

I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?

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