During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe 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 benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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