In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Beside me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
