In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
