In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual 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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