During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to changing your life, we would love to know random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are confidential, and will only be used the aim of this article.
