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In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.

We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.

I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.

We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.

Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

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