During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
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