During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From making your day 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, without revealing your identity if you prefer. What you share are protected, and are intended for the aim of this article.
