In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I ought to seek a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are an adult, anonymously if you choose. What you share are protected, and are solely for the aim of this article.
