In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. Your responses are protected, and will only be used the aim of this article.
