During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I shared that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. A perk of the job was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-assurance to reach out at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to changing your life, we would love to know random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you choose. The stories you tell are protected, and will only be used the aim of this article.
