In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a job in Zurich 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 kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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