During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had booked a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we are interested in chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you choose. The stories you tell are protected, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
