During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. 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. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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