In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Beside me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq walked over 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 attended the interview – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you prefer. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
