In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. 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?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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