In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to 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 everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's making your day to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you wish. What you share are protected, and are solely for the aim of this article.
