In the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in NYC, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we grabbed food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The Iraqi student walked over 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 went to the meeting – but straight off 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 said: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his identity, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in so many ways. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are confidential, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
