In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me 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 involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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