In the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering 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. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
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