In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's making your day to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you choose. Your responses are secure, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
