During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Since my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, found a table, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Tell us about the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
