During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.
Beside me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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