In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended 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 ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student 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 went to the meeting – but right away explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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