In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
We invite you to tell us if you are of legal age, anonymously if you wish. What you share are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.
