In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
