During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat 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 recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked 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 organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
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