In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
We invite you to tell us if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are protected, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
