In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger 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, anonymously if you choose. The stories you tell are confidential, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
