During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Since my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program 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 Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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