During the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of 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 didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
