In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Because my travel mate was considering starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had arranged a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, found a table, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know 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 attended the interview – but right away told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Additionally, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory 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 altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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