During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish. The stories you tell are protected, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
