In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq approached 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 taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, anonymously if you choose. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
