During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and told 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 went to the meeting – but straight off informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the aim of this article.
