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In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.

He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.

A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.

I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.

We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.

What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.

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

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