During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to altering your path, we would love to know random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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