In the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we got some food, found a table, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed 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 went to the meeting – but immediately informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Tell us about the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you choose. Your responses are protected, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
