🔗 Share this article

In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.

We got to the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.

He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

In typical New York fashion – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.

I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I would never have had the bravery or self-belief to reach out at an elite institution and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.

What's more, that role at the university resulted in a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.

What is the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?

Whether it's brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have stuck with you.

Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. What you share are protected, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.