In the late 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Since my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's making your day to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you wish. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
