During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq approached 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 gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” 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 no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
