In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, anonymously if you prefer. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
