In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
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