In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria 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. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. 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 used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
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