In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, anonymously if you choose. What you share are secure, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
