During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – adjacent to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I attended the interview – but straight off told my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you wish. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
