During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, anonymously if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
