In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to 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 explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person 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 altering your path, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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