In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you prefer. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
