In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know 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 explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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