During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had booked a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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