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During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Because my companion was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.

We reached the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.

Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.

The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that night. The Iraqi student came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.

As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief 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.

Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.

Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?

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