In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Tell us about the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you wish. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
