During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you prefer. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.
