In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of 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, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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