In the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the cafeteria, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but right away explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. What's your start date?” I never got on that flight to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his name, but his selfless gesture transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the confidence or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. Moreover, I had always wanted to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a role in Europe where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we would love to know chance encounters that have left a lasting impression.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are secure, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
