In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. 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 showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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