In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin 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 degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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