During the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
Whether it's making your day to changing your life, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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