During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. Your responses are protected, and are intended for the aim of this article.
