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During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.

We got to the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.

Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.

He noted that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.

The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.

I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.

Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.

What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?

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