During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. 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 gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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