In the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was considering starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we want to hear about random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. Your responses are confidential, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
