During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my companion was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had booked a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I did for a living, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at the institution – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student approached me and told me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but straight off explained to my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in multiple respects. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to approach someone at an Ivy League university and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to pursue education overseas, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.
What's more, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a job in Zurich where I met my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you prefer. What you share are confidential, and are solely for the aim of this article.
