During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia 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 role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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