In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a big 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
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 transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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