During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student approached me and informed 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 interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. 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?
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