During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we want to hear about random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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