In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. 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 job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you prefer. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
