During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I ought to seek a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that night. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the confidence or self-assurance to reach out at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we would love to know random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
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