In the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
