In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Since my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you prefer. What you share are protected, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
