In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, 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 always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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