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In the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.

We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

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 chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.

I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.

I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.

What's more, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?

From making your day to changing your life, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.

Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are protected, and are intended for the aim of this article.