An Compassion of Unknown Individuals: How a Man I Had Just Met Assisted Me Land the Position That Changed My Life

In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my companion was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.

We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.

Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.

He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

The following day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.

I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.

We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or self-belief to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.

Critically, that job in New York led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

Can you recall the Nicest Thing a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?

From brightening your mood to transforming your future, we are interested in chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.

We invite you to tell us if you are 18 or over, without revealing your identity if you prefer. What you share are protected, and will only be used the aim of this article.