In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity changed my life in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
