During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. 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 performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person 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?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you wish. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
