In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are protected, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
