In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He noted 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 role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are protected, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
