In the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a friend. Since my companion was exploring starting a postgraduate program in the Big Apple, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a large ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side called International House. Setting down our luggage, we headed straight to the cafeteria, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been conducting research involving microscopic analysis.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I consider applying for a job with them. I dismissed the idea, telling him that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I toured the city, coming back to the dining hall that night. The engineering student came up to me and let me know that he had arranged an interview for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Given that he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately explained to my interviewer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where everything seems achievable – she responded: “That can be arranged. How soon can you begin?” I missed my plane to London.
I worked there for three years. One of the benefits was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I took advantage to earn a master’s of international affairs.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his selfless gesture changed my life in multiple respects. I lacked the courage or nerve to contact anyone at an prestigious college and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.
Critically, that gig at Columbia led me to a role in Europe where I met my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?
Whether it's brightening your mood to changing your life, 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. Your responses are confidential, and are solely for the purpose of this feature.
