In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with people eating there.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received 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 name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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