During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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