During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
