During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Since my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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