In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion 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 told my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you choose. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
