In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin 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 just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
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