In the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a two-week stay there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that night. The man from Iraq walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and request employment. Additionally, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
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