During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you prefer. The stories you tell are protected, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
