In the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft 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 earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, anonymously if you choose. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
