During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you choose. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
