During the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. 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 Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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