In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared 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 the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in chance encounters that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you prefer. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
