In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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