In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education 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 identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.
We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
