During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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