During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – 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 metropolis where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution 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 role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish. Your responses are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
