An Compassion of Strangers: The Way a Person I Only Just Encountered Assisted Me Secure the Role That Changed My Life

During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.

Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.

He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He recommended that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

The following day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.

I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.

Critically, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual 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?

From brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know chance encounters that have remained in your memory.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the aim of this article.