In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
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