During the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we grabbed 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 told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. 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?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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