In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a big multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are secure, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
