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During the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.

We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.

Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering 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 conducting research involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.

A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.

I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.

What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?

Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.

Please share your story if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you choose. Your responses are confidential, and will only be used the aim of this article.