During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, 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 Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, anonymously if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
