In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
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 consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, 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 eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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