In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we are interested in chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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