During the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received 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 altered my destiny in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. 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.
What's more, that gig at Columbia resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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