In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering 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 scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my prospective employer 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 said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
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 would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you choose. What you share are protected, and are intended for the aim of this article.
