In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Since my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. What you share are secure, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
