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During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.

The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.

I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.

Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

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

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