In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Since my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the student accommodation, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the canteen, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
As is common in NYC – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. What's your start date?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Perhaps most importantly, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to changing your life, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are an adult, keeping your details private if you wish. What you share are protected, and are intended for the aim of this article.
