During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student 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 taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, anonymously if you wish. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
