In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we want to hear about random meetings that have stuck with you.
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