During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight 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 seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the courage or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have stuck with you.
We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish. What you share are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
