During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you wish. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
