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During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.

In typical New York fashion – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.

I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.

What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

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