During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting 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 prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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