During the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – 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 also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are protected, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
