During the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
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