In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, anonymously if you choose. The stories you tell are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.
