In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
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