🔗 Share this article

In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.

We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.

He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe 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 helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?

Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you choose. Your responses are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.