In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you wish. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
