During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
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