🔗 Share this article

During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.

I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.

Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?

Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.

Please share your story if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you wish. What you share are secure, and are solely for the aim of this article.