During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, 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 mentioned 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 consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
