🔗 Share this article

During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.

Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.

I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.

I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.

Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

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

From making your day to changing your life, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.

We invite you to tell us if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are confidential, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.