During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, 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 director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger 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?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
