In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising 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 eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
