In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a big 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – 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 was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you wish. Your responses are secure, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
