During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat 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 newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a place where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his full name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
