During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
