In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the university – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
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