During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away told my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received 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 can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I would never have had the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Shown for You?
Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you wish. What you share are protected, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
