In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student walked over to me and informed 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 right away informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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