In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know 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 showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich 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 helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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