In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course 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 random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you wish. Your responses are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
