During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Because my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student approached 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 taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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