In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to changing your life, we would love to know 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 aim of this article.
