In the final years of the 1980s, I was embarking on a backpacking trip to Europe with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a 14-day stopover there on the way to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with people eating there.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies involving microscopic analysis.
He mentioned that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – right next door to the school of engineering, which was how he knew about it. He suggested that I consider applying for a role with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that after dark. The man from Iraq 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 immediately explained to my prospective employer that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
As is common in NYC – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she said: “We'll handle it. 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 was granted no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I can't recall his full name, but his remarkable generosity transformed my future in multiple respects. I lacked the confidence or self-assurance to approach someone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to study abroad, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that job in New York led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I currently share 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 Ever Done for You?
Whether it's making your day to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you wish. What you share are confidential, and will only be used the aim of this article.
