During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended 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 didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you choose. Your responses are protected, and are intended for the aim of this article.
