During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off told my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, anonymously if you wish. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
