In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of 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, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a place where anything feels possible – she said: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” 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 free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
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From brightening your mood to altering your path, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
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