In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft 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 finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, 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 choose. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
