During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. 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 made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we want to hear about chance encounters that have stuck with you.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you choose. What you share are protected, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
