During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, anonymously if you choose. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
