During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared 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 institution – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you prefer. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
