During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. 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 Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
