During the closing decade of the 80s, I was embarking on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a sizeable multi-story edifice on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq pursuing an engineering degree at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I did, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but right away told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. How soon can you begin?” 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 earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in so many ways. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Additionally, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. It was a total sliding doors moment. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From making your day to changing your life, 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 wish. What you share are confidential, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
