During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. 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 made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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