In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are protected, and will only be used the aim of this article.
