During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him 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 electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we would love to know random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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