In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the courage or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university resulted in a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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