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During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.

We reached the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.

I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.

I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.

Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

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