In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me 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 went to the meeting – but straight off informed my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
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