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In the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.

We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with people eating there.

Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.

We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

What's more, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

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