During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you prefer. Your responses are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
