During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Since my friend was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in NYC, we had planned a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We got to the postgrad residence, a big multi-story edifice on the Manhattan's Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the dining hall, where we got some food, sat down, and began chatting with other diners.
Sitting next to me was an individual of Iraqi origin pursuing an engineering degree at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I did, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been conducting research with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – close to the school of engineering, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq came up to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had gone to the trouble, I showed up for the discussion – but straight off informed my interviewer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was probably wasting her time.
In typical New York fashion – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I was employed there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I got no-cost classes at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.
We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his identity, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or self-assurance to contact anyone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Perhaps most importantly, that role at the university led me to a job in Zurich where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I now have a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That helpful person redirected my path 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 changing your life, we are interested in unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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