In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.
