In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall 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. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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