In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to 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 explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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