In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off told my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
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