During the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. Your responses are protected, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
