In the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The man from Iraq walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, anonymously if you wish. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
