During the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we are interested in chance encounters that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. What you share are protected, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
