In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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