In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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