During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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