During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish 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 so many ways. I lacked the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. What you share are secure, and are intended for the aim of this article.
