In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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