In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Because my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a big 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Beside me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the university – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student came up to me and informed me that he had arranged an interview for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but right away told my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position 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 earn a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. 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 Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, anonymously if you wish. Your responses are secure, and are solely for the aim of this article.
