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In the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.

We arrived at the student accommodation, a big 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.

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

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