In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had booked a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some 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 wanted to know what I did, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off explained to my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
We invite you to tell us if you are of legal age, anonymously if you choose. The stories you tell are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
