During the late 1980s, I was embarking on a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a degree in science and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an research lab at the institution – adjacent to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I lacked a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, returning to the canteen that after dark. The man from Iraq came up to me and let me know that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had made the arrangement, I attended the interview – but right away informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a place where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I got free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his name, but his incredible act of kindness transformed my future in numerous aspects. I would never have had the bravery or nerve to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Additionally, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but lacked the financial means without that educational benefit.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I now have four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From brightening your mood to altering your path, we want to hear about chance encounters that have stuck with you.
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