During the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, anonymously if you prefer. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
