In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
