In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a friend. Since my friend was considering starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had arranged a fortnight visit there before heading to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, found a table, and started talking to people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where anything feels possible – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I was employed there for three years. An advantage of the role was that I also received free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have remained in your memory.
We invite you to tell us if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you prefer. Your responses are protected, and are solely for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
