In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know 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 right away told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
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