During the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but immediately told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. 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 was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia resulted in 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 changed my trajectory in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to transforming your future, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, keeping your details private if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the aim of this article.
