In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, 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 my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
