🔗 Share this article

In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.

We got to the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.

The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me 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 straight off explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

In typical New York fashion – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.

I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.

Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university paved the way for a job in Zurich where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?

From cheering you up to transforming your future, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.

Please share your story if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.