In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we want to hear about random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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