In the final years of the 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my companion was considering pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We reached the postgrad residence, a large 10-storey building on the UWS known as International House. Setting down our luggage, we made our way to the canteen, where we got some food, sat down, and started talking to fellow residents.
Beside me was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He inquired what I did for a living, and I explained that I had recently completed my studies with a science degree and had been working on studies using an electron microscope.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He recommended that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I did not possess a US visa.
A day later I went out exploring, coming back to the dining hall that night. The Iraqi student approached 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 right away informed my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
As is common in NYC – a city where anything feels possible – she declared: “We can make that happen. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for 36 months. A perk of the job was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I took advantage to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I can't recall his full name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I lacked the courage or self-assurance to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that free tuition.
Critically, that gig at Columbia paved the way for a position in Switzerland where I encountered my handsome spouse from France, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. This was a pivotal life event. That kind stranger redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From cheering you up to changing your life, we are interested in chance encounters that have stuck with you.
Please share your story if you are an adult, anonymously if you choose. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the aim of this article.
