During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away informed my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that 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 approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Tell us about the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.
