In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a place where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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