During the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a job with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. 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 want to hear about random meetings that have stuck with you.
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