In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with 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, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are an adult, anonymously if you wish. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the aim of this article.
