During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away told my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you choose. What you share are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.
