In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Because my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out 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 recommended that I should apply for 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 toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped 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 paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are protected, and are solely for the aim of this article.
