In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was considering pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student came up to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to reach out 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 educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share a family of four kids. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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