In the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Because my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
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