In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door 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 laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution 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 educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are protected, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
