During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
