During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, 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 UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you prefer. Your responses are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
