In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted 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 should apply for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about 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 are interested in unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you choose. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
