In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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