In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
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 free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising 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 forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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