In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are confidential, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
