During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland 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 kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about chance encounters that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are protected, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
