During the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Since my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a place 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 a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
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