In the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course 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 are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the aim of this article.
