During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. Your responses are protected, and will only be used the aim of this article.
