During the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia 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 performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. 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 got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
