In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The man from Iraq approached 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 taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted no-cost classes 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 name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the courage or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
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