In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
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