During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you choose. What you share are protected, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
