In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my travel mate was interested in starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at Columbia University – 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 dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to reach out at an Ivy League university and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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A tech journalist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and digital innovation across global markets.
