In the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Since my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that night. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that 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.
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 a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
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