In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away informed my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted 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 can't recall his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we would love to know random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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