During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
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 suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Stranger Has Shown for You?
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