During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience 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 aim of this article.
