In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
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