In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
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 recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, 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 got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you prefer. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
