In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria 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. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
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