During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, 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 got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
