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In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.

We arrived at the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.

A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.

I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.

I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.

What's more, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?

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