During the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits 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 can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you choose. Your responses are secure, and are intended for the aim of this article.
