In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you choose. The stories you tell are protected, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
