During the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to Europe with a travel partner. Because my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a scientific background and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – adjacent to the engineering department, which was the reason he was familiar with it. He suggested that I should apply for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that night. The engineering student came up to me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had taken the effort, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off told 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: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I also received complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his full name, but his incredible act of kindness changed my life in multiple respects. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an elite institution and seek a position. And, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. It was a total sliding doors moment. That benevolent individual set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Once Performed for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in random meetings that have left a lasting impression.
Please share your story if you are an adult, anonymously if you prefer. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
