In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you prefer. The stories you tell are protected, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
