During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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