In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my travel mate was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. Your responses are protected, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
