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During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.

We reached the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.

A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or self-assurance to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

Critically, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.

What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?

Whether it's making your day to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.

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