During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and let me know 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 attended the interview – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we are interested in chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you choose. What you share are secure, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
