During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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