In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me 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 went to the meeting – but right away informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
