During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program 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 involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete 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 didn't possess the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
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