During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know random meetings that have stuck with you.
We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are protected, and are intended for the aim of this article.
