In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have 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 eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you prefer. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
