In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering 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. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.
We invite you to tell us if you are of legal age, anonymously if you prefer. Your responses are protected, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
