In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, 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 forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we want to hear about chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are confidential, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
