In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to Europe with a companion. Because my friend was considering enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at Columbia University – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away explained to my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane 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 master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I can't recall his identity, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the bravery or self-belief to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York resulted in a job in Zurich where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
Please share your story if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.
