In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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