In the late 1980s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a companion. Since my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a two-week stay there en route to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Manhattan's Upper West Side known as International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He mentioned that there was an research lab at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I ought to seek a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for three years. A perk of the job was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an prestigious college and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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