During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person 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 Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you wish. Your responses are protected, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
