In the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Because my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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