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In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there before heading to London.

We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.

The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.

Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?

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

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