During the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to 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 kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we are interested in chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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