During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away informed my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger 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?
From making your day to altering your path, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you choose. Your responses are confidential, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
