During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering 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 taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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