During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him 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 microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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