During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Because my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
We invite you to tell us if you are of legal age, anonymously if you prefer. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
