In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was considering starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
We invite you to tell us if you are of legal age, anonymously if you choose. The stories you tell are confidential, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
