In the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The Iraqi student came up to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away told my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. 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 also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in so many ways. I lacked the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that role at the university paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.
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