In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we are interested in chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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