🔗 Share this article

During the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.

We got to the student accommodation, a big 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.

Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.

He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

Critically, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?

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

Please share your story if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. What you share are secure, and will only be used the aim of this article.