In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
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