In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Since my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
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