In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired 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 noted that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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