In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are confidential, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
