During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion 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 host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, 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 eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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