During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
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