During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are of legal age, anonymously if you wish. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
