An Compassion of Strangers: How a Gentleman I Had Just Met Supported Me Obtain the Position That Altered My Path

During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.

We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.

The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.

I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the courage or self-belief to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.

What's more, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

Whether it's cheering you up to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.

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