🔗 Share this article

In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.

Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.

A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq 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. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that role at the university resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?

From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you choose. Your responses are confidential, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.