During the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him 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 microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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