In the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a big multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you prefer. Your responses are secure, and will only be used the aim of this article.
