In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance 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 changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Tell us about the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. What you share are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.