In the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to altering your path, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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