During the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as 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.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing 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 after dark. The man from Iraq walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you wish. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
