During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the courage or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you prefer. Your responses are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
