During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Because my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a big 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended 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 didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn 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 transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, anonymously if you choose. What you share are protected, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
