In the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are protected, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
