During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, 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 forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are protected, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
