During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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