During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
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