In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you prefer. What you share are protected, and are solely for the aim of this article.
