During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Tell us about 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 chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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