During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi 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 showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
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