During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
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