In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away explained to my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
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