During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off told my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are protected, and are solely for the aim of this article.
