During the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, 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 noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
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