During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away told my host 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 declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown 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 an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are protected, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
