In the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to transforming your future, we would love to know random meetings that have stuck with you.
We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish. What you share are protected, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
