During the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
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