In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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