In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting 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 lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, 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 eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. Your responses are confidential, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
