In the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Beside me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know random meetings that have stuck with you.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
