During the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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