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In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.

We got to the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.

He noted that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.

A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

In typical New York fashion – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.

I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

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