In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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