In the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
