In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Beside me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. 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 conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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