In the late 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me 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 with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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