In the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
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