During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Because my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are an adult, anonymously if you choose. What you share are protected, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
