In the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
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