In the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a companion. Since my companion was interested in starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a big multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I told him that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where anything feels possible – she said: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I am unaware of his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the confidence or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I met 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 Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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