In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there on the way to London.
We arrived at the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I did for a living, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the engineering faculty, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The Iraqi student walked over to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my interviewer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a place where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I never got on that flight to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I also received no-cost classes at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I don’t even know his identity, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I didn't possess the bravery or nerve to reach out at an Ivy League university and request employment. And, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that free tuition.
Critically, that job in New York paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I got to know my handsome spouse from France, with whom I now have four amazing children. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From making your day to changing your life, we would love to know random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, without revealing your identity if you choose. The stories you tell are protected, and will only be used the purpose of this feature.
