In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away told my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, anonymously if you choose. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
