During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, found a table, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university 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 benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
