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During the closing decade of the 80s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.

We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, found a table, and began chatting with other diners.

Beside me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.

He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.

The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student came up to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.

I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college 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 job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.

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

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