In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, 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 job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we want to hear about random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
