During the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for 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 went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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