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During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.

A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.

Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?

Whether it's making your day to changing your life, we would love to know random meetings that have left a lasting impression.

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