During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you choose. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the aim of this article.
