In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, found a table, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we are interested in chance encounters that have remained in your memory.
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