🔗 Share this article

During the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.

We got to the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.

He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.

A day later I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.

I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.

Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?

Whether it's cheering you up to transforming your future, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, anonymously if you wish. What you share are secure, and will only be used the aim of this article.