In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq approached 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 made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away informed my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
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