During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
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 consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person 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?
Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
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