In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we want to hear about chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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