During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq approached 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 gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich 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 benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the aim of this article.
