In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the courage or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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