In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a companion. Because my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but straight off informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you choose. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
