In the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
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