In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, anonymously if you wish. Your responses are protected, and will only be used the aim of this article.
