In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Because my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek 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 following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
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