In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately told my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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