During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about 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, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
