During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. 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?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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