During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
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