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In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and began chatting with fellow residents.

Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.

The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.

I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.

We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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