During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish. The stories you tell are protected, and are solely for the aim of this article.
