During the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Because my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – 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, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, anonymously if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
