During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
