In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked 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 postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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