During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Because my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane 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 finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we want to hear about chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, anonymously if you prefer. What you share are protected, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
