In the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed 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 attended the interview – but right away informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, 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 am raising a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are protected, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
