During the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
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