In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a place 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 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
