During the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a companion. Because my companion was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We arrived at the postgrad residence, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq studying engineering at Columbia University. He inquired what I my profession was, and I told him that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been performing experiments using an electron microscope.
He pointed out that there was an microscopy facility at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a job with them. I laughed it off, telling him that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
The following day I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she responded: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for three years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and request employment. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a job in Zurich where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I now have four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.
Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are secure, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
