In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Since my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we would love to know random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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