During the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. 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 was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger 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?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
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