In the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a big 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we are interested in chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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