In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in so many ways. I lacked the courage or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, 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 always appreciative.
Can you recall 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 random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. Your responses are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
