During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. Your responses are secure, and are intended for the aim of this article.
