In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we want to hear about random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the aim of this article.
