In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you choose. Your responses are protected, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
