In the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek 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.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but immediately told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage 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 didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. Your responses are protected, and will only be used the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
