During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a big 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia resulted in a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
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